Djamila Bouhired Algerian revolutionary Country: Algeria

1. Early Life and Activism
2. FLN involvement
3. Arrest and Trial
4. Release and Legacy
5. Cultural Impact

Early Life and Activism

Jamila Bouhired was born into a middle-class family in Algeria and attended a French school. As a student activist, she joined the Algerian National Liberation Front (FLN) in its struggle against French colonial rule.

FLN involvement

Bouhired played a crucial role within the FLN as a liaison officer and personal assistant to FLN commander Yacef Saadi in Algiers. Her responsibilities included delivering messages and providing support to the resistance movement.

Arrest and Trial

In April 1957, Bouhired was arrested by French forces during a shootout. She was charged with terrorism and sentenced to death. However, a high-profile media campaign led by her French lawyer, Jacques Vergès, successfully overturned the sentence.

Release and Legacy

Bouhired was released from prison in 1962, becoming a national hero in Algeria. She and Vergès eventually married and collaborated on the Algerian magazine "Révolution Afrique." Bouhired became one of three female FLN bombers depicted in the 1966 film "The Battle of Algiers."

Cultural Impact

Bouhired's story has been portrayed in several films, including "Jamila the Algerian" (1958) by Egyptian director Youssef Chahine and "Terror's Advocate" (2007) by Barbet Schroeder, which focuses on her arrest and Vergès's defense of her in court.