This article is about the social history of Tunisia under the French. For the French administration, see French protectorate of Tunisia.
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History of Tunisia
Prehistoric
Prehistory
Ancient
Carthage
12th C.–146 BC
1st Roman (Province)
146 BC–435
Vandal
435–534
2nd Roman (Byzantine) / Byzantine North Africa
534–698
Prefecture
534–590
Exarchate
590–698
Early Islamic
Umayyad
698–750
Abbasid
750–800
Aghlabid
800–909
Fatimid
909–973
Medieval
Zirid
973–1148
Norman
1148–1160
Almohad
1160–1229
Hafsid
1229–1574
Early modern
Ottoman
1574–1705
Husainid
1705–1881
Modern
French Tunisia
1881–1956
Kingdom of Tunisia
1956–1957
Bourguiba rule
1957–1987
Ben Ali coup
1987
Ben Ali rule
1987–2011
Tunisian Revolution
2011
Parliamentary system
2011–present
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The history of Tunisia under French rule started in 1881 with the establishment of the French protectorate and ended in 1956 with Tunisian independence. The French presence in Tunisia came five decades after their occupation of neighboring Algeria. Both of these lands had been associated with the Ottoman Empire for three centuries, yet each had long since attained political autonomy. Before the French arrived, the Bey of Tunisia had begun a process of modern reforms, but financial difficulties mounted, resulting in debt. A commission of European creditors then took over the finances. After the French conquest of Tunisia the French government assumed Tunisia's international obligations. Major developments and improvements were undertaken by the French in several areas, including transport and infrastructure, industry, the financial system, public health, administration, and education. Although these developments were welcome, nonetheless French businesses and citizens were clearly being favored over Tunisians. Their ancient national sense was early expressed in speech and in print; political organization followed. The independence movement was already active before World War I, and continued to gain strength against mixed French opposition. Its ultimate aim was achieved in 1956.[1][2]
^For geography and climate background, see History of Tunisia preview.
^For referral to authorities, see text following.
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