A conference held in Marseille, France, centered on Habib Bourguiba, a pivotal figure in Tunisian history. The symposium explored the complex legacy of Bourguiba, who transitioned from an anti-colonial activist to an authoritarian president. Discussions in Marseille focused on the inherent contradictions within his political career and impact on Tunisia. The event provided a platform to analyze Bourguiba’s contributions alongside the problematic aspects of his rule. Kapitalis first published the article detailing the Marseille event and its focus on Bourguiba’s divisive heritage. The symposium aimed to offer a nuanced understanding of his role in shaping modern Tunisia.