French is an official language in 29 countries.
France has a long and rich history that dates back to the Iron Age. The country emerged from the fragmentation of the larger Carolingian empire when Hugh Capet became King of West Francia in 987. This kingdom consolidated power and expanded territorially, becoming known as “France”
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| Map of France from late 1500's |
France has played an important role in shaping our world today. Its influence can be seen in many aspects of modern life, from architecture to cuisine to fashion. Its contribution to the arts is unparalleled, with some of the world’s most iconic paintings and sculptures originating from French artists.
The French Revolution had a great and far-reaching impact that probably transformed the world more than any other revolution. Its repercussions include igniting the Age of Revolutions. One could make the case that the American Revolution would not have happened if the French Revolution had not been successful. Of course, that argument would be wrong (thanks to JM) since the French Revolution was nearly a decade after the American Revolution!
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| The French Revolution |
During World War I, France was one of the main participants. Of the 8 million Frenchmen mobilized, 1.3 million were killed and almost 1 million crippled. Large parts of northeastern France, the nation’s most advanced industrial and agricultural area, were devastated. Industrial production fell to 60 percent of the prewar level; economic growth was set back by a decade.
There are many famous French people throughout history. Here are some notable ones:
Napoleon Bonaparte (1769 – 1821) was a political and military leader who rose quickly through the ranks of the military during the French Revolution and became Emperor of France. He is known for his military conquests and reforms in France.
Joan of Arc (1412 – 1431) was a French heroine who led the French army to several important victories during the Hundred Years’ War. She was later captured by the English and burned at the stake for heresy.
Marie Curie (1867 – 1934) was a physicist and chemist who conducted pioneering research on radioactivity. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and she won two of them in different fields.
French cuisine is some of the tastiest in the world. For example, croissants are a buttery, flaky pastry that is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack. They are made from a yeast dough that is layered with butter and then rolled and folded several times to create the flaky texture.
Coq au vin is a classic French dish that consists of chicken cooked in red wine with bacon, mushrooms, onions, and garlic. It is typically served with potatoes or rice.
So raise a glass of Bordeaux to celebrate France...a country rich in tradition and heritage.
ReplyDeleteVive la France!