About France

Located in Western Europe, France has a long and glorious history that saw it hold tremendous power for centuries. Even today France is among the more respected and powerful countries around and boasts the 6th largest economy in the world. France was one of the founding members of the European Union as well as the United Nations.

Renowned as a country of “love” France is one of the most visited nations on earth; in fact, over 79 million tourists and business visitors pass through the country each year.

France has its origins going back to antiquity. The nation, then known as Gaul, was conquered by Julius Caesar in the 1st century BC. Although the people of Gaul initially rebelled against their Roman conquerors, in time they came to accept their rule and even adopted the Roman culture as their own. Christianity took firm root in the territory during the 2nd and 3rd centuries and continued to hold strong sway over the population until modern times.

France was a monarchy for much of history. It culminated with the reign of Louis XIV. It was due to the excesses of the monarchy that the French Revolution had such support. In 1789 the monarchy was overthrown and the king and queen were beheaded. The monarchy was only re-established in 1815 after the failed battle of Waterloo where Napoleon was defeated; although reinstated the monarchy had new constitutional limitations.

France continued to be a force on the world stage until after World War I when the country was left in a weakened state that would continue for decades. It was only after World War II that the current French Republic was established, since then the country has had to struggle to maintain its economic and political status.

Thanks to some clever leadership over the past several years France is in much stronger shape today. It has been pointed out that their reconciliation with Germany was one of the keys to their renewed strength as it helped them integrate into the new and evolving European Union.

France is now a superb spot for those looking to invest their hard earned dollars. Their stable and growing economy coupled with seductive cities and charming pastoral lands combine to make a highly attractive place for anyone yearning to generate profits while enjoying the scenery.

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