The 1991 Algerian Islamist Revolution

Since winning it's independence from France, Algeria under president Houari Boumediene, witnessed a revival of the country's military strength. But Boumediene's government was vastly corrupt, which led to the demoralization of the lower class and soon the country began an economic collapse. With major uprisings from the people, amd with a new president, Chadli Bendjedid, the nationalist National Liberation Front (FLM) took over with French support. However the constitution changed, with one important revision. Future elections will involve multiple parties.Show more

Two men would start their own political wing, Ali Belhadj and Abbassi Madani, the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS). in December 1991, when the new and enormously popular Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) party appeared poised to defeat the ruling National Liberation Front (FLN) party in the national parliamentary elections. The elections were canceled after the first round and the military effectively took control of the government, forcing pro-reform president Chadli Bendjedid from office. After the FIS was banned and thousands of its members arrested, Islamist guerrillas rapidly emerged and began an armed campaign against the government and its supporters. After the FIS dissolved, other more militant groups took its place, which led to some of the most brutal massacres during the war's 11 years period.