Algerian-French relations during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte Through an Ottoman archival document 1217 AH/1802 AD

Abstract

The Algerian-French relations were characterized by cordiality and peace for most of the period since 1619, thanks to the privileges Algeria granted to France, whether in the economic or political sphere, making it one of the most favored European countries by Algerian rulers.

However, France lost this privileged status at the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century, following the military campaign in Egypt in 1798, which led to strained relations between France and the Ottoman Empire as well as its provinces.

The archival document under study illustrates the extent of the deterioration in relations between Algeria and the French government, represented by Napoleon Bonaparte, the First Consul. France attempted, through the Ottoman Empire’s representative in Paris, to involve the Empire in the dispute by requesting him to write a letter to the Algerian Regency, seeking to calm the situation between the two countries. This was due to Napoleon’s arrogance, vanity, and threats of using military force to stop what he considered France's humiliation by Algeria’s demands for repayment of debts and other unconvincing pretexts.

This Hamayouni document (report) is essentially a statement from the Ottoman representative in Paris to the Ottoman authorities about the problems between Algeria and France, highlighting the critical state of tension that peaked in 1802, and also justifying the writing of a letter to the Algerians at the request of First Consul Bonaparte.