الدور الحربي والجهادي للحركة السنوسية في مقاومة الاستعمار الفرنسي في تشاد

Abstract

Ancient historical sources confirm the depth of Libyan-Chadian relations, despite the existence of the desert barrier, and these ties were strengthened with the spread of Islam in the north and south of the African continent. Trade caravans played a vital role in the transportation of goods, Islamic culture, and the Arabic language between the two basins. This study sheds light on the role of the Senussi movement in resisting French colonization in Chad during the first decade of the twentieth century, using a narrative and analytical historical approach. The migrations of many Libyan tribes to northern Chad, fleeing Ottoman oppression, contributed to strengthening the ties between the two peoples before the advent of colonization. The Senussi movement, which moved its headquarters to the Chadian region of Garou, found great support from these tribes and the people of the country. The movement stood as an impenetrable barrier to French expansion, and its men participated in fierce battles in Ankori, Bir Alali, and others. The study concludes that the Senussi movement succeeded in unifying the efforts of the Chadian national resistance, supporting it with weapons and men, thus confirming its pivotal role in connecting the peoples of the northern and southern Sahara and challenging colonialism.