Historical Dictionary of Algeria - (Historical Dictionaries of Africa) 4th Edition by Phillip C Naylor (Hardcover)

About the Book

This fourth edition of Historical Dictionary of Algeria covers its history through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 700 cross-referenced entries on important personalities, politics, economy, foreig...

Book Synopsis

Algeria's strategic regional and global importance continues to grow. Its hydrocarbon wealth, namely natural gas and oil, is impressive and its receipts are crucial to the national economy. The European Union is a particularly valued hydrocarbon importer and overall commercial partner. The bilateral relationship with France remains problematic and paradoxical. Algeria has demanded an apology for the imposition of colonialism; but it also recognizes the importance of France economically, politically, and militarily, e.g., the unrest in the Sahel (notably Mali). Furthermore, Algeria continues to recover from its recent, tragic civil strife characterized by terrorism and extremism. Its uncertain future, given its ageing leadership, rentier economy, and frustrated youth, is a critical concern.

This fourth edition of Historical Dictionary of Algeria covers its history through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 700 cross-referenced entries on important personalities, politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Algeria.

Review Quotes

"Naylor delivers a concise, informative resource that updates earlier editions and provides information critical for students, scholars, and general readers researching Algeria. Despite their proximity to Europe, the countries of North Africa are not well known. Algeria was a major player in Africa's liberation from colonial rule, setting an example for decolonizing African nations in the 1960s. With its high literacy rate and economic growth, Algeria has become a place of great interest to scholars and students alike. Released in the wake of events referred to as the 'Arab Spring, ' Naylor's revision comes at an opportune time, since Algeria is once again a beacon of stability and economic success. The dictionary follows the publisher's typical format with a time line for quick reference of dates and events. An introductory essay provides the detailed description of sequences of events featured in the compilation. Hundreds of alphabetically arranged, cross-referenced entries describe important people, places, issues, and events in the nation's history, covering politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture; the bibliography is likewise arranged under broad subjects. Coverage spans every era, from the earliest human settlements to the present, highlighting such developments as French colonization, the growth of nationalism, and the national war of liberation. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-level undergraduates through faculty/researchers; general readers." --Choice Reviews

Naylor delivers a concise, informative resource that updates earlier editions and provides information critical for students, scholars, and general readers researching Algeria. Despite their proximity to Europe, the countries of North Africa are not well known. Algeria was a major player in Africa's liberation from colonial rule, setting an example for decolonizing African nations in the 1960s. With its high literacy rate and economic growth, Algeria has become a place of great interest to scholars and students alike. Released in the wake of events referred to as the 'Arab Spring, ' Naylor's revision comes at an opportune time, since Algeria is once again a beacon of stability and economic success. The dictionary follows the publisher's typical format with a time line for quick reference of dates and events. An introductory essay provides the detailed description of sequences of events featured in the compilation. Hundreds of alphabetically arranged, cross-referenced entries describe important people, places, issues, and events in the nation's history, covering politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture; the bibliography is likewise arranged under broad subjects. Coverage spans every era, from the earliest human settlements to the present, highlighting such developments as French colonization, the growth of nationalism, and the national war of liberation. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-level undergraduates through faculty/researchers; general readers.

About the Author

Phillip C. Naylor is professor of history at Marquette University. Besides his work on two previous editions of the Historical Dictionary of Algeria, he has authored France and Algeria: A History of Decolonization and Transformation and North Africa: A History from Antiquity to the Present.