This module discusses the centralized nature of the French state, a legacy of the French Revolution. It explores the formation of a lasting republic in 1875, the challenges of reform, and the tensions between Paris and rural regions, where workers and peasants played crucial roles.
This module introduces the course's main themes and texts, emphasizing national and linguistic identity, as well as the effects of the World Wars on society. Students will gain insight into both famous historical figures and the lives of ordinary individuals during this transformative period.
The Paris Commune of 1871 serves as a significant historical event that shaped France's political landscape. This module examines the brutal repression following its fall and its lasting influence on leftist politics across Europe. Despite considerable adversity, the Commune also introduced progressive social measures, particularly for women.
This module discusses the centralized nature of the French state, a legacy of the French Revolution. It explores the formation of a lasting republic in 1875, the challenges of reform, and the tensions between Paris and rural regions, where workers and peasants played crucial roles.
This module investigates the development of French national identity, particularly in rural areas. It highlights the interplay between the French language and regional dialects, emphasizing how local cultural practices shaped identity alongside the official narrative from the Parisian center.
This module addresses the dual forms of de-Christianization in post-Revolution France, focusing on both political separation of church and state and declining religious practice. Analyzing these dynamics reveals the continued influence of Catholicism in French culture and society.
This module revisits the Industrial Revolution in France, challenging the notion that it was overshadowed by British developments. It puts emphasis on artisan workers' roles in labor movements and the impact of industrial discipline on workers' lives, including their resistance through strikes.
This module examines the political dynamics of socialism in France, detailing the tensions between revolutionary and reformist factions. It highlights key figures such as Jules Guesdes and Paul Brousse, and the unifying leadership of Jean Jaures, whose influence extended into the twentieth century.
This module delves into the world of anarchism in late nineteenth-century France, particularly the emergence of individual acts of terrorism. It contrasts anarchists' goals with those of syndicalists, highlighting the serious implications of state power versus individual actions.
This module analyzes significant crises in nineteenth-century France, specifically focusing on the Boulanger Affair and the Dreyfus Affair. It explores the rise of anti-Semitism and right-wing sentiments fueled by territorial losses, revealing how media shaped public opinion and political attitudes.
This module examines the cultural significance of drinking in France, addressing the issue of alcohol abuse and its historical neglect. It discusses celebrated works like Zola's L'Assomoir while analyzing the social role of alcohol in both rural and urban settings.
This module focuses on the transformation of Paris during the Belle Epoque, emphasizing the impact of Napoleon III's rebuilding projects. The resulting class divisions between the city center and its periphery are analyzed, illustrating how urban development shaped contemporary social landscapes.
This module addresses France's colonial aspirations in the late nineteenth century, especially following the loss of Alsace and Lorraine. It explores how colonialism became integral to France's cultural identity and the eventual decline of the empire post-World War I.
This module analyzes the origins of World War I, focusing on the complex alliances formed between nations, particularly France and Russia. It considers ideological compromises and nationalist sentiments, providing insight into the broader implications of imperial ambitions on European stability.
This module examines trench warfare's impact on morale and the experience of combatants during World War I. It discusses the societal implications of France's involvement, particularly regarding the conflict over Alsace-Lorraine and the new technologies that altered the nature of warfare.
This module focuses on the critical year of 1917 during World War I, discussing the Bolsheviks' rise in Russia and the U.S. entry into the war. It analyzes the home front's struggles, including mutinies and strikes, as soldiers faced challenges reintegrating into civilian life.
This module addresses the profound grief and memory associated with World War I, exploring the personal and public dimensions of mourning. It examines the rituals and processes that shaped collective memory, focusing on figures like the Unknown Soldier as symbols of loss.
This module examines the political landscape in France following World War I, highlighting the rise of Far Right and fascist organizations. It discusses the challenges faced by the left, particularly the Popular Front, which sought to unite socialists and communists under Leon Blum's leadership.
This module delves into the Vichy regime's role in France during World War II, focusing on collaboration with Nazi Germany. It discusses how the post-war period obscured these actions and the ideological framework of right-wing politics that emerged during this time.
This module explores the complex nature of resistance during World War II in France. It highlights the diverse backgrounds of resistors, including communists, socialists, and ordinary citizens, and expands the definition of resistance to include various acts of passive opposition.
This module examines the historical context of anti-American sentiment in France following World War II. It analyzes the perceptions of American culture, military presence, and economic influence, reflecting ongoing concerns about cultural imperialism and the preservation of French identity.
This module looks closely at France's colonial history, particularly concerning Vietnam and Algeria. It discusses the complexities of decolonization, the involvement of French settlers, and the political divisions that emerged following France's withdrawal from Algeria under de Gaulle's leadership.
This module examines Charles de Gaulle's significance in shaping postwar France. It explores his political strategies and the symbolic nature of his leadership, emphasizing how he represented the aspirations of the French people amid a polarized global landscape.
This module analyzes contemporary challenges facing France, including the effects of European unification and rising xenophobia. It highlights the impact of these issues on French identity and the pursuit of liberty, equality, and fraternity in a rapidly changing society.