CONFLICT AND COOPERATION: FRENCH-ALGERIAN RELATIONS, 1962-78

This dissertation examines the evolving post-colonial relationship between France and Algeria in the light of their common colonial experience. It studies the continuities and the changes that have come about during the presidencies of Charles de Gaulle, Georges Pompidou, and Valery Giscard d'Estaing, on the one hand, and under the leadership of Ahmed Ben Bella and Houari Boumedienne, on the other. To this end it begins by reviewing the character of the French presence and its transformation during the age of decolonization. On the French side, the dissertation looks at the development of the policy of cooperation within the framework of French foreign policy and then at the application of this policy in various sectors. On the Algerian side, it deals with the response to the French policy and its application. Finally, it treats the sectors of French-Algerian cooperation that have played the largest parts and have had the greatest significance in their global relations, hydrocarbons and human beings--in particular, the hundreds of thousands of former European settlers and the equal numbers of Algerians in France as refugees or as workers. The conclusion summarizes the developments that have given French-Algerian relations since 1962 such importance to both countries to the point of their having what one might call a special or particular importance.;Despite capricious relations, there have been constants. Algeria has continued to covet French cooperation. Indeed, France's policy and its programs have transcended crises and have illustrated both a selfish and selfless, yet real interest in Algeria's future.;The history of this relationship discloses one nation redefining its role in a changing world and the other seeking to find one. Compounded by complex tangible and intangible influences, this history is of a special relationship between a developed and developing nation.;The paradox of conflict and cooperation that has characterized the post-colonial relationship stems from France's desire to perpetuate its presence and Algeria's quest to complete decolonization. Also, the philosophical and ideological perspectives of each country has contributed to this paradox.