Abstract

The Armenian Question has long been a contentious issue, particularly in light of the events of the 20th century and the ensuing political debates surrounding genocide allegations. This article explores the Armenian Question through the lens of archival documents, with a focus on case studies of mass killings in Africa and Palestine during the 20th and 21st centuries. The article begins by providing a comprehensive overview of genocide, its definition, and its historical context. It delves into the legal definition of genocide as established by the United Nations and examines the politicization of the term in Western media and academia. Drawing on case studies from Algeria, Madagascar, and Kenya, the article highlights the complexities of applying the genocide label to historical events, particularly in colonial contexts. In Algeria, the French colonial period and the Algerian War of Independence are examined, showcasing the brutal repression and atrocities committed by French forces. Despite widespread ethnic cleansing and human rights abuses, the events in Algeria are not typically classified as genocide due to the focus on national liberation rather than the destruction of a specific group. Similarly, the article explores the Malagasy Uprising in Madagascar, where French colonial forces brutally suppressed a rebellion, resulting in extensive loss of life. While some characterize the events as uprising, the legal definition of the killing is fully applied here as genocide in this context.The article then turns to the Armenian deportation of 1915 and the ongoing debate surrounding its classification as genocide. It challenges the prevailing narrative by examining archival sources and historical context, shedding light on the complex dynamics between Armenians and the Ottoman Empire. Ultimately, the article argues for a nuanced understanding of genocide and historical events, emphasizing the importance of archival research and critical analysis in shaping our understanding of contentious issues like the Armenian Question. By revisiting these case studies in Africa and Palestine, the article seeks to broaden the discourse on genocide and challenge prevailing narratives in academia and politics.

Keywords: Armenian Question, Ottoman State, Genocide, Africa, Palestine, Uprising.