ABSTRACT
Introduction When it comes to describing, explaining, analysing and assessing the role and contribution of public diplomacy and soft power to Algeria’s foreign policy, it is necessary to refer to the historical, political, economic and cultural contexts of the country in order to gain a better understanding of their evolution. In fact, the basic values and principles that continue to guide Algerian foreign policy have their roots in the revolution against French colonial rule that began in 1830. A series of acts of insurrection, resistance, opposition, uprising and riots boiled over in 1954 into popular revolution. The revolution having been concluded by a cease-fire on 19 March 1962, Algeria’s independence was proclaimed on 5 July 1962. Algerians paid a high price in the blood of 1.5 million freedom fighters and in psychological trauma. But, importantly, it has enabled the Algerian people to reclaim their dignity, independence and pride after 132 years of colonization and deprivation of freedom.
