Insights into French Identity: 2012 National Commemorations in France
Every year the National Archives of France selects events of historical significance to highlight as national commemorations on the occasion of a multiple of their centennial or semicentennial, providing insights into the French national identity.
Street Art: Gilles Sacksick, the Animal Painter… and Artist
A photo vignette about street art and scaffolding covers, featuring animals at the National Veterinary School in Maisons-Alforts, a wall painted with attitude in Paris's 10th arrondissement and the capital's historical judicial complex where, sadly, everyone is now sentenced to Life.
The Rothschilds in France, a 19th-century Riches to Riches Story
Rothschild: whether pronounced in English, German, Italian or English, the name has for 200 years signified wealth, in particular Jewish wealth. We still speak, as do the French, of someone as being rich as Rothschild—or more likely not rich as Rothschild.
Where and Why to Visit the American WWI Sights of France
A France Revisited “Conversation with an Expert” in which Gary Lee Kraut speaks with Ben Brands, the historian with the American Battle Monuments Commission about the U.S. First World War sights of France.
Lafayette and the American Flag: The Fourth of July Ceremony
In permanent recognition of his role in aiding the American cause, an American flag has flown over Lafayette’s grave ever since the end of WWI. The flag is changed every year on July 4 in a highly orchestrated ceremony attended by French and American dignitaries.
Got Heritage? Pelerin Awards Help Restore France’s Catholic Heritage
History has taught France the dangers of seeing a dominant religion play a leading role in public policy. Yet it has also left this...
Paul Niedermann: Interview with a Holocaust Survivor and Witness in France
Janet Hulstrand tells about her encounter with Holocaust survivor Paul Niedermann and interviews him about his life, his work and his childhood.
Understanding France: National Commemorations of 2018
A selection of 30 of France's 2018 National Commemorations—of saints, queens, and musicians, assassinations, treaties and war, slavery, gastronomy and science—that give insights into various aspects of French history, culture and politics.
The Bonjour Rule
Along with Beware of Pickpockets and Travel Curiously, the Bonjour Rule is one of the top rules to live by as you visit France.