The Shadow of Algiers

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The Shadow of Algiers: The Suitcase or the Coffin

The Suitcase or the Coffin

BBC Radio 4 - The Shadow of Algiers, The Suitcase or the Coffin

Stories from France's troubled history with Algeria and why they still matter today.

The story of how France greeted tens of thousands of French and Algerians driven into exile after the Algerian War of Independence.

President de Gaulle signed the Evian Accords with the Algerian Independence Movement, the FLN, sixty years ago next month. 

Edward Stourton tells the story of how France greeted tens of thousands of French and Algerians who, virtually overnight, felt they had no choice but to leave Algeria.  They feared for their future, and even for their lives. 

But the idea that many of them were simply 'coming back' to their homeland was far from the truth.   



Sound design: Peregrine Andrews
Producers: Adele Armstrong and Ellie House
Editor: Richard Vadon
Production Coordinator: Gemma Ashman

REFERENCES 
"Ceasefire in Algeria announced by de Gaulle 1962” British Pathe.
“In a Savage War of Peace” Alastair Horne.

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Edward Stourton presents stories from France's troubled history with Algeria - a colonial past which still casts its shadow over the present.

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