Algeria

The Emirate of Algeria is a theocratic nation in North Africa that borders Morocco and Libya.

Culture

The culture of Algeria is heavily influenced by Sunni Islam and the teachings of Abdelkader. The government is largely made up of Sufi priests and elders. This is including the judicial system, which in part seeks to uphold Sharia Law. Men and women alike are encouraged to dress modestly, and even the currency bears the name of the Prophet Muhammad.
Abdelkader had been greatly influenced by his drive for knowledge, and this carried in his decree to preserve books of all kinds. Though his collection was largely destroyed or confiscated by his imprisonment, he began anew upon his return. To this day, the Library of Tagdemt is heralded as a great cultural center for learning.

History

With the onset of the French Civil War, Abdelkader al Jaza'iri was held as a political prisoner with his family in France. In 1852, with the help of his guards, Abdelkader escaped France and returned to Algeria. It was there that he declared the peace agreement between himself and France was voided by his imprisonment as opposed to the promise exile, and thus resumed his jihad. He was once again elected as Emir, with the full title of Commander of the Faithful.
Abdelkader successfully drove out the remaining French forces from the region, and turned his attention east to the remaining tribes that had resisted him. Adding to his charisma the capabilities of French generals that had joined him, he was able to finally bring them into the fold.
Abdelkader passed away in 1883. By his decree, the title of Emir of Algieria was once again inherited via election among the Sufi priests and elders.
During the Berlin Conference of 1884 and 1885, Algeria argued to have its borders recognized south into the Sahara Desert.

Ethics

During his lifetime, Abdelkader ensured the equality of all men under Allah, regardless of faith and nationality. Those taken prisoner by him during the revolution were treated fairlyand hospitably, which in turn saw many of them flock to his side upon his return. During the riots across much of the Arab world, he ordered the protection of Christians being targeted for violence. Though this degree of ethics has waned throughout the duration of the Emirate, Abdelkader's successors have largely held these tennents as fundamental.

"Victory from Allah and reconquest is near", "Nothing is more beneficial than piety and courage"

Founding Date

1852

Alternative Names

Emirate of Algeria

Government System

Monarchy, Elective

Executive Body

The Emir is the elected Head of State that serves for life. He is assisted by a Council of Ministers called divan, and advised by a board of majilis, as well as Kalifahs representing the various regions of Algeria and wise ulamas. He is elected from amongst the Ulamas, Khalifahs, or the Majilis.