The religious dimension in the French campaign in Algeria was characterized by a strategy governed by the spirit of Crusade, aimed at eradicating the Islamic religion. This was evident through various statements made by political, military, and religious officials, such as Prime Minister Paulinack, Minister of War Clément Toniz, and Minister of Religious Affairs Bishop Frisnous. They played a prominent role in inciting the king to invade Algeria and expedite the process of occupation. To avoid opposition from major European countries to the invasion of Algeria, the phenomenon of piracy and the issue of liberating European Christian prisoners from the hands of enemies of the Christian faith were exploited. After successfully occupying the territory, the French quickly erased all traces of Islamic religion, such as mosques, zawiyas (religious schools), and Quranic schools. Mosques were either converted into churches, demolished, or turned into stables. They seized control of religious endowments, and priests and religious figures openly called for Christianity, as did Father Dubois.

Religious dimension, French campaign, Algeria, Islamic religion, religious figures, French policy.