Leadership Crisis in Region I / Wilaya I, 1955-1957: A Historical Study

Abstract

This study examines the crisis of military leadership in Region I, later Wilaya I, between 1955 and 1957 through Algerian and foreign writings. It also considers the role of the Soummam Conference in intensifying internal conflicts. Appointments made by the institutions created by the Conference sidelined some of the Wilaya's cadres from positions of authority. The leadership crisis produced divisions, protests, and competition for power. These conflicts may have been driven by particular factions or by personal ambitions. They eventually led to a cycle of physical eliminations in which several leaders were killed, while others surrendered to the French authorities. The French administration exploited this situation to advance its own interests.