Algeria: Nation, Culture and Transnationalism: 1988-2015 (Francophone Postcolonial Studies Lup) Paperback – 31 Aug. 2021 by Patrick Crowley (Editor)
Algeria: Nation, Culture and Transnationalism 1988–2015 offers new insights into contemporary Algeria. Drawing on a range of different approaches to the idea of Algeria and to its contemporary realities, the chapters in this volume serve to open up any discourse that would tie ‘Algeria’ to a fixed meaning or construct it in ways that neglect the weft and warp of everyday cultural production and political action. The configuration of these essays invites us to read contemporary cultural production in Algeria not as determined indices of a specific place and time (1988–2015) but as interrogations and explorations of that period and of the relationship between nation and culture.
The intention of this volume is to offer historical moments, multiple contexts, hybrid forms, voices and experiences of the everyday that will prompt nuance in how we move between frames of enquiry. These chapters ― written by specialists in Algerian history, politics, music, sport, youth cultures, literature, cultural associations and art ― offer the granularity of microhistories, fieldwork interviews and studies of the marginal in order to break up a synthetic overview and offer keener insights into the ways in which the complexity of Algerian nation-building are culturally negotiated, public spaces are reclaimed, and Algeria reimagined through practices that draw upon the country’s past and its transnational present.
Algeria, a gateway between Africa and Europe, has been battered by violence over the past half-century.
There are conflicting reports about the death toll during the war against France for independence in the 1950s and early 60s. French historians estimate that up to 400,000 Algerians were killed, while the Algerian government says more than one million people died.
The Sahara desert covers more than four-fifths of the land. Algeria is the Africa's biggest country, and is the world's 10th largest!
Oil and gas reserves were discovered there in the 1950s, but most Algerians live along the northern coast.
Sourca and details Algeria BBC country profile
Algiers is the capital of Algeria. An estimate puts the population of the city to be around 5,000,000. Algiers is located in the north-central portion of Algeria. The city is situated on the west side of a bay of the Mediterranean Sea.
Google search trends Algeria
Algeria, officially known as the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria, is a North African country with a rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Here are some key points about Algeria:
Geography: Algeria is the largest country in Africa by land area, covering approximately 2,381,741 square kilometers. It's bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Tunisia and Libya to the east, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania to the south, and Morocco and Western Sahara to the west. Much of the country is part of the Sahara Desert, with the Atlas Mountains running through the north.
Population: Algeria has a population of about 44 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Africa. The capital, Algiers, is the largest city.
Culture and History: Algeria has been influenced by many civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Ottomans, and French. It was under French colonial rule from 1830 until it gained independence in 1962 after a hard-fought war. The country is known for its Berber culture alongside Arab influences, with Arabic and Berber (Tamazight) as official languages. Islamic culture plays a significant role in Algerian life, with Islam being the state religion.
Economy: Algeria is an upper-middle-income economy with a heavy reliance on hydrocarbons (oil and natural gas), which account for a significant portion of government revenue and export earnings. There's been an effort to diversify the economy, focusing on agriculture, manufacturing, and services, though progress has been slow due to various challenges including bureaucracy and corruption.
Politics: Algeria operates as a presidential republic, where the president holds significant power. There have been ongoing political changes, notably the "Hirak" movement in 2019, which led to substantial political shifts including the resignation of long-time president Abdelaziz Bouteflika. The country has faced challenges with democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression, though there are signs of reform and public demand for change.
Current Issues and Developments: Algeria has been dealing with economic issues like unemployment and inflation, exacerbated by global oil price fluctuations. There's ongoing tension with Morocco, particularly over Western Sahara. Social reforms, particularly regarding women's rights and youth engagement, are areas of focus, with some legislative progress made in recent years.
