This book gives an adequate analysis of the evolution of events since the Algerian army launched its preemptive strike in January 12, 1992 against the Islamic Salvation Front party (FIS), and nulify the election results that were in its favor. It examines why and how Algerians became involved in a savage civil war and why the high expectations for a peaceful political transformation through a democratic process have turned into a bloody conflict. Since religion in and of itself does not lead to intolerance, what went wrong in this country?