The French protectorate of Tunisia is established in 1881, during the Scramble for Africa, and lasts until Tunisian independence in 1956.Tunisia forms a province of the decaying Ottoman Empire but enjoys a large measure of autonomy under the bey Muhammad III as-Sadiq.In 1877, Russia declares war on the Ottoman Empire.

Russian victory foreshadows the dismemberment of the empire, including independence for several Balkan possessions and international discussions about the future of the North African provinces.The Berlin Congress of 1878 convenes to resolve the Ottoman question.

Britain, although opposed to total dismantling of the Ottoman Empire, offers France control of Tunisia, in return for Cyprus.

Germany, seeing the French claim as a way to divert French attention from revengeful action in Europe (where France had suffered defeat at Prussian hands in 1870-1) and little concerned about the southern Mediterranean, agrees to allow France overlordship in Tunisia.

Italy, which has economic interests in Tunisia, strongly opposes the plan but is unable to impose its will.The French presence in Tunisia comes five decades after their occupation of neighboring Algeria.

Both of these countries had been former possessions of the Ottoman Empire for three centuries, yet each had long ago attained political autonomy from the Sultan in Constantinople.

Before the French arrived, Tunisia had begun a process of modern reforms, but financial difficulties mounted until the installation of a commission of European creditors.

After their occupation, the French government assumes Tunisia's international obligations.

Major developments and improvements are undertaken by the French in several areas, including transport and infrastructure, industry, the financial system, public health, and administration.

Yet French business and its citizens are favored, not to the liking of Tunisians.

Their preexisting national sense is early expressed in speech and in print; political organization follows.

The independence movement is already active before the First World War, and continues to gain strength against mixed French opposition.

Its ultimate aim is achieved in 1956.