Description
Book SynopsisA concise history of France from prehistory to the present, recounting the great events and personalities and exploring France's cultural and political influence today. Artists, martyrs, kings, revolutionaries: France's sense of national identity is inextricably linked to its dramatic history, which fascinates the world and attracts millions each year to visit its chateaux and cathedrals, boulevards and vineyards. Ancient roots allied to a social, political and military history that has witnessed revolution, conflict and occupation mean that France holds a unique position in the modern world. In this short, easy-to-digest history of a vast subject, Jeremy Black succinctly narrates how France's past has created its distinct character. Country and destination, nation and idea, France has an incomparable cultural legacy, and exerts a powerful artistic, intellectual and political influence across the globe. Black's vivid take on history emphasizes the unexpected nature of events
Trade Review'A superb account of 2,000 years of France and the French in the making by a master of his craft. Bold insights and evocative detail are combined in a narrative that is a pleasure to read. A tour de force' - Robert Gildea, Professor of Modern History, University of Oxford
'Readers of his many previous works will not be disappointed by this addition to the Jeremy Black canon. Encyclopaedic knowledge and a lifelong enthusiasm for visiting French historical sites underpin his new concise survey of French history from prehistoric times right down to Emmanuel Macron' - William Doyle, Professor Emeritus of History, University of Bristol
'An excellent and thought-provoking introduction to the history of France. Concisely and accessibly written, it skilfully interweaves long-term social, cultural and even climatic factors with the more familiar narrative of wars, revolutions and coups d’état. In particular, and in a highly stimulating way, it shows just how much the shape of today’s France, both geographical and political, owes to sheer chance' - Munro Price, Professor of Modern European History, University of Bradford
'The perfect history book for anyone travelling to France. Packed with information from the Sun King to Monet, via chateaux and artists’ cafes, this is an adroit whistle-stop tour illuminating the very essence of La France ' - Waterstones, History Books of the Year
Table of ContentsPreface
Introduction
1. Prehistoric Legacies
2. Roman France
3. The Early Middle Ages
4. Medieval France
5. Renaissance France, 1494–1598
6. From Henry IV to Louis XIV, 1598–1715
7. The Ancien Régime, 1715–89
8. The Revolution, 1789–99
9. From Napoleon I to Napoleon III, 1799–1870
10. The Third Republic, 1870–1939
11. The Second World War, 1939–45
12. France Reborn, 1945–69
13. Modern France, 1969–2000
14. France Today, 2001–
15. Conclusions
