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Independence & Modern Algeria
Ahmed Ben Bella
Post-Independence
Leaders & Statesmen1916–2012Oran / West
He was overthrown in 1965 and spent many years under house arrest before a long exile.
Historical significance
He led the early years of independent Algeria and remains a controversial but central figure of its political history.
Their story
A founding figure of the FLN and one of the leaders captured in the 1956 plane interception, Ben Bella became the first president of independent Algeria in 1963.
Did you know?
He was overthrown in 1965 and spent many years under house arrest before a long exile.