The massacres of 8 May 1945 through the testimonies of the Beni Mzab people in northern Algeria (particularly the cities of Sétif and Guelma)

Abstract

This article examines the 8 May 1945 massacres as a pivotal event in modern Algerian history through the testimonies and contributions of the Beni Mzab community, which was widely present in northern Algerian cities, particularly in the Tell region such as Sétif, Guelma, Kherrata, and others. Owing to their commercial activity and presence in northern cities, they participated in economic and social life and played a role in the 8 May 1945 demonstrations, with some contributing to the preparation of national flags and supporting the nationalist movement.

Following the violent repression carried out by French colonial authorities, which resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries, the arrest of a large number of Algerians, and the destruction of property—including that of Mozabite traders—many of them went bankrupt, which forced many to return to the Mzab Valley.

The article also relies on oral testimonies from Mozabite traders and resistance fighters regarding the decline of the Mozabite commercial presence in eastern Algeria after the massacres, due to severe economic and psychological damage. It further provides important details about the city of Guelma, highlighting the responsibility of the colonial authorities in the massacres and mentioning some French local officials and their role in the repression.

In the same context, the article highlights attempts by local notables to intervene and stop the massacres through meetings with the colonial authorities; however, these efforts did not lead to any decisive results.