Forensic techniques in colonial contexts : the case of French West Africa (1923-1941)

This study focuses on the use of forensic techniques in French colonies, particularly in French West Africa (AOF) during the interwar period. After an overview of the importance given to these methods in France for establishing the “truth” in criminal cases, the analysis extends to cases of violent...

Szczegółowa specyfikacja

Zapisane w:
Opis bibliograficzny
Główni autorzy: Ginio, Ruth, Gaillard, Léa
Format: Article ou chapitre numérique
Język:Français
Wydane: 2025
Dostęp online:Accès Université d'Orléans et IFPM
Accès Université d'Orléans et IFPM
Opis
Streszczenie:This study focuses on the use of forensic techniques in French colonies, particularly in French West Africa (AOF) during the interwar period. After an overview of the importance given to these methods in France for establishing the “truth” in criminal cases, the analysis extends to cases of violent deaths in AOF. Despite challenging conditions, these examinations were carried out even in the presence of numerous testimonies, reflecting colonial distrust towards witnesses. The study also examines the murder of a French property owner in Guinea in 1940, where despite numerous forensic tests, the conviction of her servant was based on dubious testimonies. This research highlights the decisive influence of the colonial context on the application of forensic practices.