French Invasion of Tunisia

Following its conquest of neighbouring Algeria, France looked to extend its influence over Tunisia, an Ottoman regency governed by the bey but weakened by heavy foreign debt and European financial supervision. Rivalry with Italy, which also had ambitions in Tunisia, added urgency to French designs.

In 1881 raids into French-held Algeria by the Khroumir tribesmen of the Tunisian border provided France with a pretext to invade. A French army quickly overran the country, and in May 1881 the bey was compelled to sign the Treaty of Bardo, which placed Tunisia's defence and foreign affairs under French control.

The Treaty of Bardo, reinforced by the Convention of La Marsa in 1883, established a French protectorate over Tunisia while preserving the nominal authority of the bey. French rule lasted until Tunisia gained independence in 1956. The seizure of Tunisia also embittered relations with Italy, contributing to Italy's decision to join Germany and Austria-Hungary in the Triple Alliance.