In 1830 France invaded Algiers, and started the French conquest of Algeria. The Zwawa served under the armies led by Ibrahim Agha, and particularly in the Battle of Staouéli. Following the Fall of Algiers, the French started encroaching on the Mitidja region sourrounding the city. Initially defeating the forces of Mostéfa Boumezrag at Médea, they were soon halted at the First Battle of Blida by Mohamed ben Zamoum. By 1837 the majority of the Mitidja was seized, and France started encroaching on the lands of the Zwawa.