France (Istastioner's Universe)
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The Second Kingdom of France le Deuxième Royaume de France | |
|---|---|
.svg) Flag | |
Motto: "Vive la France" "Long live France" | |
Anthem: "La Marseillaise" | |
.png) | |
| Location | France in Western Europe |
| Capital | Paris |
| Religion (2040) | 82.3% Christianity
-72.1% Catholicism -9.6% Protestantism -0.4% Other Christian 16% Islam 0.2% No religion ~2% Other |
| Government | Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy |
• King of France | Louis Augustus II |
• Prime Minster | Emmanuel Macron |
| Establishment | |
• Kingdom of the West Franks | 10 August 843 |
• August Revolution | 7 August 1830 |
| Area | |
• Total | 644,453 km2 (248,825 sq mi) (32) |
| Population | |
• 2040 census | 75,834,837 |
• Density | 118/km2 (305.6/sq mi) (95th) |
| Currency | French Franc (FFR) Euro (€) |
| Calling code | +333 |
| Internet TLD | .FR |
France, officially known as the Second Kingdom of France (le Deuxième Royaume de France in French), is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy located in Western Europe. France is ruled by Louis Augustus II, and is bordered by the North Sea to the north, the English Channel to the northwest, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Mediterranean sea to the southeast. France is one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and is a nuclear-weapons state. It is also a founding member of the European Union and the Eurozone, as well as a key member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
Etymology/Pronunciation
The word "France" originated from the Old French word "Francia," which meant "land of the Franks." The Franks were a Germanic tribe that conquered much of what is now modern-day France during the 5th and 6th centuries.
The pronunciation of "France" is /fræns/ in English. In French, it is pronounced as /fʁɑ̃s/.
History
Early Middle Age (836-1242)
The Middle Ages saw the emergence of several powerful kingdoms and dynasties in France. The Merovingian dynasty ruled from the 5th to the 8th centuries, followed by the Carolingian dynasty, which ruled from the 8th to the 10th centuries. In the 11th century, the Capetian dynasty came to power and ruled France for the next several centuries. France continued to grow and develop.
France was ruled by the Merovingian dynasty, which was followed by the Carolingian dynasty in the 8th century. The Carolingians established a strong central government and expanded the kingdom's territory, creating what would eventually become modern-day France.
High Medieval Age (1243-1562)
France was plunged into a period of political instability and social unrest. The Hundred Years' War, which began in 1337, saw France engaged in a long and bloody conflict with England over control of the French throne. The war resulted in significant territorial losses for France, as well as social and economic upheaval.
The Renaissance, which began in Italy in the 14th century, had a significant impact on France in the 16th and 17th centuries. This period saw a flowering of art, literature, and culture, as well as the emergence of new scientific and philosophical ideas.
France continued to grow and develop. The 15th century saw the emergence of the powerful Valois dynasty, which played an important role in the Italian Wars and helped establish France as a leading European power.
Early modern period (1563-1789)
The Early Modern period was also a time of significant religious conflict in France. The Protestant Reformation, which began in Germany in the early 16th century, had a major impact on French society, as Protestant ideas spread throughout the country. This led to a series of wars and conflicts between Catholics and Protestants, culminating in the devastating Wars of Religion in the late 16th century.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, France saw significant economic and cultural growth. The rise of international trade and colonialism led to an increase in wealth and prosperity, and French culture flourished in areas such as literature, art, and philosoph
Revolutionary France (1788–1799)
Revolutionary France was also marked by significant social and political unrest. The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a direct response to the inequalities and abuses of the absolute monarchy, and ultimately led to the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the First French Republic.
Revolutionary France was a time of significant change and transformation, as the country grew in power and influence and experienced both triumphs and challenges.
Napoleonic France (1800-1829)
Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power during the tumultuous years following the French Revolution. He became emperor of France in 1804 and launched a series of military campaigns that established French dominance over much of Europe.
After Napoleon's defeat in 1815, France underwent a period of political instability and economic hardship. However, the 19th century also saw significant progress in science, technology, and industry, and France emerged as a major world power.
The Orléans Monarchy/Second Empire Period (1830-1945)
During the French Revolution, the Orleans maintained their power and used their influence to steer the country towards a peaceful transition towards democracy. They oversaw the creation of a new constitution that enshrined civil liberties, democratic principles, and the rule of law. The Orleans kings were beloved by their people, who saw them as just and compassionate rulers who cared for their welfare.
In the 19th century, France continued to flourish under the Orleans dynasty. They invested in infrastructure, industrialization, and modernization, making France one of the leading powers in Europe. The Orleans also expanded their empire, acquiring new territories and establishing diplomatic relations with other nations.
During, the First Great War, France supported the Allies, sending troops and resources to fight against Germany. The war was long and devastating, but France emerged victorious, thanks to the brave sacrifice of its soldiers and the wise leadership of its king.
Contemporary France (1946-Today)
During Second Great War, France once again faced a formidable enemy, Nazi Germany. But the Orleans refused to surrender, leading a fierce resistance against the invaders. With the help of Allied forces, France was liberated from the Nazis, and the Orleans dynasty regained its power.
In the post-war era, France continued to thrive, becoming a beacon of democracy, innovation, and culture. The Orleans kings led the country through periods of social change, economic growth, and political stability. They embraced new technologies and ideas, while preserving the country's rich heritage and traditions.
Geography
France is bordered by the North Sea to the north, the English Channel to the northwest, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the southeast.
The landscape of France is diverse, with a mix of coastal plains, mountain ranges, and plateaus. The most notable feature is the Massif Central, a highland region that covers much of central France. The highest point in Metropolitan France is Mont Blanc, which stands at 4,810 meters (15,781 feet) and is located in the French Alps. The major rivers in France include the Loire, the Seine, the Garonne, and the Rhone. These rivers are important for transportation, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation.
Government
The government of France is a constitutional monarchy, with a monarch serving as a figurehead and a symbol of national unity. The real power is vested in a democratically elected parliament, with the executive branch responsible for implementing policies and the judiciary ensuring the fair and impartial application of the law.
Monarchy
The monarchy is currently headed by King Louis Augustus II, who serves as a figurehead and symbol of national unity. The real power, however, is vested in a democratically elected parliament, which is responsible for making and implementing policies.
The monarchy has also been known for its commitment to the arts, culture, and education. They have invested heavily in promoting the arts, culture, and education, recognizing that these are the foundations of a healthy and prosperous society. The monarchy has also encouraged the growth of a strong and independent civil society, with a free press, independent judiciary, and robust civil liberties.
Economy
The economy of France is characterized by a strong commitment to free-market with a few mixed-market principles, innovation, and investment in education and infrastructure. The Orleans & and French Parliament has implemented policies that promote entrepreneurship and innovation, creating a favorable business environment that attracts both domestic and foreign investment.
Tourism
Culture
France has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on the arts, literature, and science. The Orleans dynasty has invested heavily in promoting the arts, culture, and education, recognizing that these are the foundations of a healthy and prosperous society. They have also encouraged the growth of a strong and independent civil society, with a free press, independent judiciary, and robust civil liberties.