# Algeria
Bordered by Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania and Morocco, this north African nation is the largest in the continent.
From Roman-era ruins to the vast expanses of the Sahara Desert, Algeria’s landscape and landmarks are telling of its varied and rich history.
With the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the country lies in close proximity to Europe and has been occupied by humans for centuries. The Berbers are among the native population of the region and have lived there for hundreds of years.
The country has been ruled by the Romans, Arabs and the Ottomans among others before being controlled by the French as an overseas territory in the early 1800s. After years of struggle and the devastating Algerian War, it would gain independence only in 1962. The war for self-government was led by the National Liberation Front and the French leader during this period was Charles de Gaulle. The decades of French rule, however, left a lasting impact on the country in terms of its culture, way of life and economy.
Ahmed Ben Bella would become the first President of the country after its independence and governed the country till Houari Boumediene ousted him in 1965 to become the country’s leader.
The country, which is rich in oil and natural gas, witnessed a period of reform. After the oil crisis in the 1980s, Algerians bore the impact of rising prices and unemployment. This led to a series of protests and unrest.
The following years also did not bring good news for the country as it was plagued by a civil conflict that would claim thousands of lives. Talks in the 1990s eased the situation, but it failed to bring lasting peace.
Culturally and architecturally, the country is an example of a confluence of cultures. It is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the languages spoken in the country include Arabic, Berber and French.
Factfile
Name: People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria
Capital: Algiers
Currency: Dinar
President: Abdelaziz Bouteflika
Natural Features
The Aures is an important mountain range and the highest peak in the country is Mount Tahat.
