Noël Favrelière

Noël Favrelière, also known as Nordine, was born on May 11, 1934, in La Rochelle, France. His life took a dramatic turn during the Algerian War when, after serving as a non-commissioned officer in the French army, he deserted in 1956 to join the Algerian National Liberation Army (ALN) for ten months. His experiences and struggle against colonial oppression inspired various portrayals of objectors and resistance fighters, notably in René Vautier's film "Avoir Vingt Ans Dans Les Aurès" (1972). Favrelière was among the "Righteous of Algeria," who stood in solidarity with the Algerian quest for independence.

Growing up during the Nazi Occupation, he witnessed the Resistance's fight for liberation, which shaped his beliefs. After completing his military service in Algeria, he became increasingly disturbed by the treatment of Muslim populations, recalling the resistance figures of his youth who now seemed to be his adversaries. His turning point came during a military operation that resulted in the tragic death of a young girl, igniting his resolve to oppose the war.

On August 19, 1956, he made the pivotal decision to flee with an Algerian prisoner, joining the ALN. He faced repercussions for his actions, including two death sentences in absentia. His account, "Le Désert À L'Aube," was published by Les Éditions de Minuit in 1960 but was quickly banned.

Following his return to France in 1963, he held a press conference and showcased his art with the support of prominent figures like Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre. Favrelière later earned a degree in Art History and served as the director of the Museum of Algiers. In 1966, he received a pardon from General De Gaulle, enabling him to continue his career in academia and the arts, eventually retiring in 1999.

Recognized for his contributions