Generals' putsch of 1961

Definition

The generals' putsch of 1961 was a failed coup attempt by a faction of French military leaders in Algeria aimed at overthrowing the French government and halting the process of decolonization in Algeria. This event marked a significant moment in the Algerian War, reflecting deep divisions within France regarding its colonial policies and escalating tensions surrounding the war itself.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The coup was orchestrated by a group of military generals who believed that France should maintain its colonial rule over Algeria despite rising nationalist sentiments.
2. The putsch took place on April 21, 1961, and lasted for several days before collapsing due to lack of support from key military and political leaders.
3. Despite its failure, the coup highlighted the extreme polarization in French society over the issue of Algerian independence and raised questions about the legitimacy of government authority.
4. The generals' putsch resulted in further crackdowns on military dissent in Algeria, intensifying the ongoing conflict and complicating negotiations for peace.
5. Ultimately, the events surrounding the coup contributed to a shift in public opinion in France regarding Algeria, leading to increased calls for an end to the war and eventual independence in 1962.

Review Questions

• How did the generals' putsch of 1961 reflect the conflicting attitudes within France towards Algerian independence?
  • The generals' putsch of 1961 illustrated the deep divisions within France regarding Algerian independence. A faction of military leaders felt strongly that Algeria should remain a part of France, showing a refusal to accept changing political realities. Their attempt to overthrow the government emphasized the extent of resistance against decolonization, revealing not just military dissent but also broader societal tensions regarding colonial rule.
• Discuss the impact of the generals' putsch on Charles de Gaulle's presidency and his approach to Algeria's future.
  • The failure of the generals' putsch significantly influenced Charles de Gaulle's presidency, forcing him to confront the reality that military leaders were willing to act against his government. It reinforced his belief that maintaining control over Algeria through military means was unsustainable. As a result, de Gaulle shifted his strategy toward negotiating Algerian independence, culminating in the Évian Accords in 1962, which formally ended the conflict.
• Evaluate how the events of the generals' putsch may have reshaped France's post-colonial identity and policies in subsequent decades.
  • The generals' putsch represented a pivotal moment that reshaped France's post-colonial identity by compelling the nation to confront its colonial past and reassess its role in global affairs. Following the coup's failure, France began redefining its relationship with former colonies, moving towards policies that acknowledged sovereignty and self-determination. This shift had lasting implications on France's foreign policy, influencing its engagement with other post-colonial nations and fostering discussions about historical accountability and reconciliation.

Related terms

Algerian War:

A conflict between France and Algerian independence movements from 1954 to 1962, resulting in Algeria gaining independence from French colonial rule.

OAS (Organisation Armée Secrète): A secret army organization formed by French military officers and civilians who opposed Algerian independence and resorted to terrorism and violence to try to maintain French control.

Charles de Gaulle:

The French general and statesman who played a pivotal role during and after World War II and later became President of France, advocating for Algerian independence while facing strong opposition from military hardliners.