ocr: Algeria's struggle for independence from France lasted from 1954 until 1962. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Algeria's success in rejecting a colonial power made it a champion for the developing world. It hada leading voice within the UN, the Arab League and the Organization for Atrican Unity. However, relations with the West remained essentially stable. Algeria was increasingly seen by the diplomatic community as a useful bridge between the West and Iran. Inl 1981,Algerian diplomats helpedto secure the release of American hostages held in Tehran during the last days of US President Carter's t ...
