Resistance in the Djurdjura area
1. Introduction:
The first attempts to rule the Djurdjura region go back to the beginning of the French colonization of Algeria. However, the forces were preoccupied with eliminating the resistance of El-Amir Abdel Kader on the west and Ahmed Bay on the east. During those times, they only set up the front stations and forts around the area and the strategic locations. They also focused the surveillance on the seafront.
The phases of the resistance: the resistance in Djurdjura has gone through two essential parts led by: Cherif Bou baghla, Bou Hmara, and Fatma N’soumer.
2. The first phase 1842 - 1847:
It took place during the rule of Marshall Bijou, it ended with the occupation of Yesr, Deles, Borj Menayl. And the start of France's interest in the region's economic side.
We can discern that from the report Bijou gave to the French government, stating: "the region will be without a doubt the fruit of this campaign, next to being populated more than the others. it represents a consuming force of our products; in return, they can give us a large amount of oil and dried fruits …”
3. The second phase 1851-1857:
It is a significant part of the resistance in Djurdjura for its sacrifices and events. The area witnessed a series of resistances under the slogan “Allah Akbar”, like the resistance of Cherif Bou Baghla, Bou Hmara, and Lalla Fatma N’soumer. From that the French colonialism faced strong violent resistances that precluded it from expanding at the speed and the way that was planned. Despite the engagement of big Marshalls such as Randon and MacMahon.
