On this day in 1916, independent Algeria’s first elected president, a true revolutionary fighter, was born.
Ben Bella’s journey to prominence began during World War II, in which he actually fought for his colonial master, France. For this, he was awarded the Croix de Guerre. However, the massacre of Algerians by French forces on 8 May 1945 was a turning point – it spurred him to organise resistance against colonial oppression.
His leadership of the National Liberation Front (FLN) during Algeria’s war of independence was instrumental to the country’s liberation in 1962. Following independence, he held significant political roles, serving as prime minister and later as first elected president. His tenure was marked by efforts to rebuild Algeria and implement reforms aimed at national development, including campaigns for literacy and land redistribution.
Internationally, Ben Bella was a proponent of pan-Africanism and sought to strengthen alliances among emerging nations. He collaborated with leaders such as Gamal Abdel Nasser, Kwame Nkrumah and Che Guevara to support liberation movements across Africa. Despite his overthrow in 1965 and years of isolation, Ben Bella remained committed to pushing for reform and global solidarity until his death at the age of 95.
His legacy as a champion for the oppressed and an advocate for socio-economic equality continues to inspire generations.
Happy birthday, Ahmed Ben Bella!