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An Introduction to France
Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state. Nevertheless, France today is one of the most modern countries in the world and is a leader among European nations. Since 1958, it has constructed a presidential democracy resistant to the instabilities experienced in earlier parliamentary democracies. In recent years, its reconciliation and cooperation with Germany have proved central to the economic integration of Europe, including the introduction of a common exchange currency, the euro, in January 1999. At present, France is at the forefront of European states seeking to exploit the momentum of monetary union to advance the creation of a more unified and capable European defense and security apparatus.
Map of France ( Location ) : 46 00 N, 2 00 E, Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between Belgium and Spain, southeast of the United Kingdom; bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Italy and Spain.
For additional reports and educational information specific to France, refer to the Country Info menubar to the upper right.
The French Flag
Three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), white, and red; known as the "Le drapeau tricolore" (French Tricolor), the origin of the flag dates to 1790 and the French Revolution; the design and/or colors are similar to a number of other flags, including those of Belgium, Chad, Ireland, Cote d'Ivoire, Luxembourg, and Netherlands; the official flag for all French dependent areas.
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Rankings of The Most Populous Countries in the World.
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Some interesting facts and figures about France.
Pop Growth Rate / Year:
• 0.39%
Avg. Life Expectancy:
• 75.8 yrs - Male
• 83.27 yrs - Female
Phone Lines:
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33,905,400 (2003)
Televisions:
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34.8 million (1997)
Radios:
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55,300,000 (1997)
Internet Code:
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.fr
Did you know ... People from France are called French
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