Some men in the French African colonies volunteered after France was invaded by Nazi Germany in 1940, while others were conscripted. They "died for France, died for our ideals, these fighters deserve the full recognition of the nation," she added. Recognition of some, not othersThis recognition is yet another step towards understanding the big contribution made by African soldiers towards French liberation during WWII. Although many ultimately sacrificed their lives for France, African soldiers were not treated nor paid the same as French troops. Their treatment after serving during WWII also illustrated the lack of equality as African soldiers were demobilized and sent back to West Africa.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 07, 2020 09:10 UTC