History and the Culture of Nationalism in Algeria: 24 (Cambridge Middle East Studies, Series Number 24) - Softcover

McDougall, James

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521103673 ISBN 13: 9780521103671

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2009

Synopsis

Colonialism denied Algeria its own history; nationalism reinvented it. James McDougall charts the creation of that history through colonialism to independence, exploring the struggle to define Algeria's past and determine the meaning of its nationhood. Through local histories, he analyses the relationship between history, Islamic culture and nationalism in Algeria. He confronts prevailing notions that nationalism emancipated Algerian history, and that Algeria's past has somehow determined its present, violence breeding violence, tragedy repeating itself. Instead, he argues, nationalism was a new kind of domination, in which multiple memories and possible futures were effaced. But the histories hidden by nationalism remain below the surface, and can be recovered to create alternative visions for the future. This is an exceptional and engaging book, rich in analysis and documentation. It will be read by colonial historians and social theorists as well as by scholars of the Middle East and North Africa.

About this title

Review

"This book is a must read for scholars of Islam as well as of the Maghrib and ought to be reprinted in paperback to become more widely available to students, journalists, and others interested in the contemporary Muslim world." - Clement M. Henry, Professor of Government, The University of Texas at Austin, Middle East Journal

"A very complex, highly original book that is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand both the origins of Algerian nationalism and the ends to which its contradictions have led." - Leland Conley Barrows

"McDougall's book is an outstanding achievement and contribution to modern Algerian history.... This book is deeply researched with very impressive readings and renderings of Arabic literature testifying to McDougall's skills as a gifted historial and linguist. A map and eighteen illustrations enhance the work. Advanced students and specialists, especially those familiar with postmodern critical theory, will benefit most from it. Nevertheless, McDougall's work will undoubtedly serve as an essential reference for any study of the historical development of Algerian nationalism." - International Journal of Middle East Studies

Book Description

Colonialism denied Algeria its own history; nationalism reinvented it. James McDougall charts the creation of that history through colonialism to independence, exploring the relationship between history, Islamic culture and nationalism in Algeria. This book will be read by colonial historians, social theorists, scholars of the Middle East and North Africa.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2009
• ISBN 10: 0521103673
• ISBN 13: 9780521103671
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 284