Here's a breakdown:
* French Colonization: Tunisia was a French protectorate from 1881 to 1956. During this period, French was imposed as the official language of administration, education, and public life.
* Language Spread: French became widely used by Tunisians, particularly in urban areas and among the educated elite.
* Independence: After Tunisia gained independence in 1956, Arabic became the official language. However, French retained its importance as a language of commerce, diplomacy, and education.
* Legacy: Even today, French remains an important language in Tunisia. It is widely used in government, business, education, and media.
In summary: French is spoken in Tunisia as a legacy of French colonization, and it continues to play a significant role in various aspects of Tunisian society.