Contemporary Counterinsurgency (COIN) Insights from the French-Algerian War (1954-1962)
Abstract
Following the successful major combat operations that ousted Saddam Hussein and liberated Iraq from his dictatorial regime, the U.S. finds itself embroiled in a very complex, challenging, and inherently dangerous counterinsurgency environment in Iraq. History is replete with illustrative examples of past counterinsurgencies and the study of these campaigns can provide relevant insight and perspective of the complexities and challenges confronting the counterinsurgency force. Through research and analysis, these examples can provide relevant insight into various types of insurgencies and counterinsurgencies, as well as the successes and failures experienced in operating in these unconventional environments. The French Algerian War (1954-1962) provides one such illustrative case study. This project researches and examines three main elements from the French Algerian experience: the Algerian insurgency, the French counterinsurgency, and the political dimensions of the conflict. Citing both similarities and differences of the like elements in our current conflict in Iraq, e.g. Iraqi insurgency, U.S. counterinsurgency, and political dimensions, the selected elements for this project are intended to provide relevant insights and provide military leaders and planners a better understanding, perspective, and critical lens to view counterinsurgency campaigns in order to plan and execute more effectively in future conflicts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 03, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA478292
Entities
People
- Kenneth M. Detreux
Organizations
- United States Army War College