"A Savage War of Peace: Algeria, 1954 - 1962" is a pivotal historical account by Alistair Horne that examines the brutal conflict between Algeria and France during the mid-20th century. This conflict, rooted in colonial tensions, erupted into a war of independence as the Algerians sought to overthrow oppressive French rule. Horne uses detailed research and firsthand accounts to illustrate the complexities of the war, highlighting both the Algerian struggle for freedom and the French government's efforts to maintain control.
The book delves into the multifaceted nature of the conflict, showcasing the tactics employed by both sides. Horne discusses the guerrilla warfare used by the National Liberation Front, as well as the counterinsurgency strategies of the French military. Through vivid descriptions and analyses, he captures the human cost of the war, marked by violence, torture, and widespread suffering, which ultimately reshaped the political landscape of both Algeria and France.