The Messalians and the National Liberation Front

Abstract

This study addresses the crisis of the Algerian national movement and the disputes that arose within the Algerian People's Party and the Movement for the Triumph of Democratic Liberties over the methods of struggle for independence. The crisis deepened between the supporters of Messali Hadj and those of the Central Committee because of disagreements over party management and leadership, leading to the party's split in 1954. This division contributed to the establishment of the Revolutionary Committee for Unity and Action, which decided to adopt armed struggle as a means of liberating Algeria. Its efforts culminated in the creation of the National Liberation Front and the National Liberation Army and in preparations for the outbreak of the Revolution of 1 November 1954. The study also examines the conflict between the National Liberation Front and the Algerian National Movement during the Revolution and the bloody confrontations that followed, which affected national unity. It highlights the role of figures such as Mohamed Bellounis and Kobus, who cooperated with the French colonial authorities against the Revolution. By contrast, the National Liberation Army continued to organise its ranks and expand its military and political operations inside and outside Algeria. In conclusion, the Revolution of 1 November crowned a long course of national struggle and succeeded in uniting the majority of Algerians around the goal of independence despite internal divisions and conflicts.