Kaddour Zarq al-Ain, also known as 'Hamid', served as a fighter in the Algerian War of Independence. He operated primarily within the Ouarsenis mountains, located in Tissemsilt province.
Dr. Lakhdar Saidani, a history professor at the University of Tissemsilt, authored the book 'Memoirs of the Mujahid Zarq al-Ain Kaddour' to document these experiences. This publication examines the military contributions of Kaddour Zarq al-Ain during the conflict. The work serves as a record of his involvement in the struggle for independence within the local region.
Early Life and Resistance
Kaddour Zarq al-Ain was born on 4 February 1930. Records indicate his entry into the Algerian revolution followed a direct confrontation with a French forest guard. Legal proceedings subsequent to this incident resulted in a 6-year prison sentence issued against him in absentia. These events forced his transition into the resistance movement operating within the region. He abandoned his civilian life to join the armed struggle, eventually becoming a known figure in the Ouarsenis mountains. His shift from a local resident to a revolutionary combatant remained defined by this initial conflict with colonial authorities. This specific legal penalty served as the catalyst for his long-term involvement in the war for independence.
Command and Military Service
Kaddour Zarq al-Ain performed his military service under the command of Djillali Bounaama, who was known as 'Si Mohamed'. Records place his active duties within the third region of the fourth historical wilaya. During this period of organized resistance, he adhered to the operational structure established by the regional leadership in the Ouarsenis mountains. His role involved maintaining the logistical and combat objectives set by Djillali Bounaama for the units assigned to this territory.
Military operations involving Kaddour Zarq al-Ain included his participation in the Battle of 'Qara'at Mawt'. This engagement took place in the vicinity of the Bab al-Bakoush area, located within the municipality of Lardjem. Combatants fought in the rugged terrain surrounding this location as part of the broader regional struggle. Participation in this battle marked a notable incident in his career as a fighter, reflecting the direct military confrontations that occurred between local resistance units and opposing forces in the Tissemsilt province.
