Notes on France and the Benelux Countries

France: History, Culture, and Economy

Main Ideas

• France has transitioned through various forms of government throughout its history:
  • Kingdom
  • Empire
  • Colonial power
  • Republic
• French culture has significantly impacted global arts and ideas.
• France is currently a major center for both farming and manufacturing.
• The Benelux Countries (Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg) possess strong economies and high living standards.

Key Terms and Places

• Paris: Capital and largest city in France.
• Amsterdam: Capital of the Netherlands.
• The Hague: Seat of government in the Netherlands.
• Brussels: Capital of Belgium and headquarters for many international organizations.
• Cosmopolitan: Characterized by diverse foreign influences.

History of France

• Ancient Times:
  • Celtic peoples from eastern Europe settled in the area now known as France.
  • The Romans and Franks later conquered this land.
• Charlemagne's Empire:
  • The Frankish ruler, Charlemagne, established a large empire.
  • In 800, he was crowned emperor of the Romans by the Pope.
• Norman Influence:
  • The Normans claimed northwestern France.
  • They became kings of England and controlled part of France until the French drove them out.
• Colonial Power (1500s-1700s):
  • France established colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
• French Revolution (1789):
  • The French people overthrew their king.
• Napoleon Bonaparte:
  • Napoleon seized power and conquered most of Europe.
  • He created a vast empire that ended in 1815 after his armies were defeated by European powers.
• World Wars I and II:
  • Germany invaded France during both World Wars.
• Decolonization (1950s-1960s):
  • Many French colonies declared independence.
• Modern France:
  • France is now a democratic republic.

The Culture of France

• Shared Heritage:
  • Most French citizens speak French.
  • Catholicism is prevalent.
  • Increasing diversity due to immigration.
• Cultural Values:
  • Appreciation for good food and company.
• Contributions to Arts and Ideas:
  • Impressionism
  • Gothic cathedrals
  • Enlightenment ideas about government

France Today

• Largest Country in Western Europe
• Paris:
  • Center for business, finance, learning, and culture.
• Economy:
  • Strong economy.
  • Top agricultural producer in the EU.
  • Major crops: wheat and grapes.
  • Important sectors: tourism, perfume exports, and wine exports.

The Benelux Countries

• Composition: Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
• Location:
  • Historically prone to invasions.
  • Strategic for promoting trade.
• Characteristics:
  • Densely populated.
  • Low elevations.
  • Situated between larger, stronger countries.
  • Strong economies and democratic governments.

Netherlands

• North Sea harbors facilitate trade.
• Major cities: Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and The Hague.
• Geography: Approximately 25% lies below sea level.

Belgium

• Brussels:
  • Cosmopolitan city.
  • Home to numerous international organizations.
• Key products: cheese, chocolate, cocoa, and lace.

Luxembourg

• Economy:
  • Banking.
  • Steel production.
  • Chemical production.

Challenge Activity - Critical Thinking

The location of the Benelux Countries has been a double-edged sword; while it has made them vulnerable to invasions due to their position between larger powers, it has also facilitated trade and economic growth due to their central location and access to major waterways.

Completion Questions

1. Also known as the City of Lights, Paris is the capital of France.
2. The seat of government in the Netherlands is The Hague.
3. Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is considered a cosmopolitan city because of its many foreign influences.
4. Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands.
5. The Hague: The seat of government in the Netherlands
6. Brussels: Capital of Belgium, headquarters of many international organizations
7. Benelux: Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg