The animated series “Petite Casbah,” broadcast on France Télévisions, has sparked intense debate in France. This show, aimed at a young audience, immerses viewers in Algeria of the 1950s, a time marked by French colonization and the beginnings of the war for independence. While some viewers praise the series for its educational value, others see it as a rewriting of history and a provocation.
“Petite Casbah” follows the daily life of Khadidja, a young Kabyle girl, and her friends in Algiers in 1955. Through their adventures, the series subtly addresses social inequalities, intercommunity tensions, and the initial signs of resistance against colonial rule. Although the violence of the war is not explicitly depicted, the historical context is ever-present, encouraging reflection on the issues of decolonization.
The broadcasting of “Petite Casbah” has not gone unnoticed. Critics denounce what they perceive as a biased view of history, accusing the series of glorifying the National Liberation Front (FLN) while denigrating the French law enforcement. Public figures, like Pierre Sautarel, founder of the far-right website “Fdesouche,” have expressed outrage over what they consider to be historical revisionism that undermines French law enforcement. The controversy quickly spread beyond social media, with political figures condemning what they call “propaganda.”
France Télévisions defends its decision to broadcast “Petite Casbah.” In response to these attacks, France Télévisions has defended its decision to air “Petite Casbah.” The public broadcaster emphasizes the importance of addressing complex historical subjects, even with young audiences, to foster a better understanding of the past. The series’ creators claim they aimed to offer a nuanced narrative that does not side with any particular faction but invites reflection.
The controversy surrounding “Petite Casbah” highlights the challenges associated with representing colonization in French media, especially when targeting young viewers. The legacy of the Algerian War remains a sensitive issue in France, and the debates around this series illustrate differing interpretations of this painful chapter in history.
The creators of “Petite Casbah” hope their series will spark discussions within families and schools. By addressing themes like injustice, solidarity, and cultural diversity, they aim to raise awareness among younger generations about the issues of colonization and decolonization.
