Under French colonial rule beginning in 1830, the imposition of French education in Algeria suppressed Berber and Arabic languages in key sectors. This policy aimed to assimilate the local population into French culture and diminish indigenous identities. The impact of this educational system has had lasting effects on language preservation and cultural identity in Algeria.

The introduction of French in Algerian schools around 1830 led to the emergence of francophone Maghrebi literature, with poets like Kateb Yacine exploring themes of resistance and cultural identity. This linguistic shift created a rich tapestry of literary expression in the region.