عُمَر راسِم وجهوده الإصلاحيّة في مدينة الجزائر في مطلع القرن العشرين (1884-1956)

Abstract

 This research paper examines the figure of Omar Rasim (1884-1959) as one of the most prominent figures of the Algerian Renaissance during the first half of the twentieth century. He combined reformist thought with journalistic activity and artistic creativity in the face of French colonialism. Influenced by the ideas of Sheikh Muhammad Abduh (1849-1905), he called for religious reform, combating heresies and superstitions, and returning to the fundamentals of Islam. He also adopted social ideas based on justice and solidarity, in what became known as Islamic socialism. He was active in journalism, founding several newspapers, such as "Dhu al-Fiqar," established in 1913, which focused on the political and intellectual issues of the time, and "Al-Jazair" magazine (1908), which served as a platform for combating French influence, naturalization plans, and defending national identity. He also issued early warnings about the dangers of the movement's negative impact. Zionism, and his call for Islamic solidarity, and his role was not limited to journalism; rather, he also emerged in the artistic field, through drawing, decoration and miniatures, investing art in protecting heritage and resisting cultural invasion. Thus, he represented a model of the comprehensive intellectual who contributed with the pen and brush to reviving cultural life in the city of Algiers in particular and Algeria in general, while consolidating national awareness, and confronting colonial policies culturally and intellectually.

His role was not limited to journalism; he also distinguished himself in the artistic field through painting, ornamentation, and miniature art. He used art as a means to protect heritage and resist cultural invasion  Thus, he represented a model of the comprehensive intellectual who contributed - through both the pen and the brush - to revitalizing cultural life in the city of Algiers in particular and Algeria in general, helping to strengthen national awareness and intellectually and culturally confront colonial policies.