The story spans ten years, from 1951 to 1961, during the process of resistance against the French and conquest of independence. Jarbou, in love with his cousin Rebh, sees himself supplanted by his cousin Ali, gummier of the French army, supported by his chiefs. He is imprisoned for insurgency against this injustice. The anti-French resistance is organized and Jarbou becomes leader of a group of "fellagas" which gives a lot of concern to the enemy. Ali is taken prisoner but Jarbou releases him and continues his action.