France has a long and storied history, with key events including the French Revolution in 1789 which established it as a republic, the rule of absolutist monarchs like Louis XIV in the 17th century, and its role in World Wars I and II. Some of France's largest and most important cities are Paris, the capital, as well as Marseille and Lyon, and it maintains close economic and political ties with allies like the United States today.

1. Michael Foell FRANCE The Place Where Pets Outnumber Children

2. Independence Bastille Day in 1789. This day is the start of France’s real revolution. This day is celebrated every year on the 14th of July.

3. The French Flag Red, white, blue represents liberty, equality, and fraternity. Blue and red are also the honored color of Paris. White can also be the color of the Royal House of Bourbon.

4. The Map Capital: Paris is the largest city loaded with many tourist attractions. Marseille has a course of its 2, 500 year history and France’s 2nd largest city. Lyon is the business center of France and is loaded with delicious French food.

5. Renaissance and Reformation Francois I strengthened the French Crown and welcomed many Italian artist- Leonardo da Vinci. Increase in Protestants. King Louis XII transformed France’s feudal monarchy to an absolute monarchy.

6. Absolutism Louis XIV Absolutism in France. Fought many wars costing $$$$. Created a fancy court system. Created a lot of problems for future French kings.

7. Industrial Revolution- Imperialism Started in the time of Napoleon . Textile industry, coalmining, canals, and railways were starting in France. Natural resources, foreign markets, and having nationalism.

8. WAR WORLD I France was apart of the allies. Hated Germany and was their rivals. Battle of Verdun- Germany vs. France- bloody battle.

9. WORLD WAR II France invaded by Nazis in 1940. Germans invade France and French let them build up navy. The French just let people into their country without putting up a fight.

10. The Cold War French communists were becoming most powerful parties. France, UK, and US was trying to make West Germany an anti- Soviet military. Used planes from France to airlift food supplies to the starving in West Berlin.

11. The Government and Leader Democracy French Prime Minister- c The president appoints the Prime Minister. But the president has no veto power except in emergencies.

12. Current Relationship with US France gave them Statue of Liberty. They have always helped each other in wars. They share trade and economic relations with them the most .

13. Paris, France Museums, monuments, and Paris hotels. Amazing food. The Eiffel Tower. People can go as a family, a couple, or just to sightsee.

14. Napoleon Bonaparte Responsible for introducing France’s institutions. He built a huge empire. He was a famous French general.