Short essays offer a kaleidoscopic, “provocative history of France” and its place within the world—from its prehistoric frescoes to Coco Chanel to the terrorist attacks of 2015 ( New Yorker ). “A major work, exhaustive, controversial and fresh—and entirely relevant to Anglophone readers”—that redefines how we write about national and world history” ( Guardian ). Bringing together an impressive group of established and up-and-coming historians, this bestselling French history conceives of France not as a fixed, rooted entity—but instead as a place and an idea in flux, moving beyond all borders and frontiers, shaped by exchanges and mixtures.

Presented in chronological order from 34,000 BC to modern day, each chapter covers a significant year from its own particular angle: the marriage of a Viking leader to a Carolingian princess proposed by Charles the Fat in 882; the Persian embassy’s reception at the court of Louis XIV in 1715; the Chilean coup d'état against President Salvador Allende in 1973 that mobilized a generation of French left-wing activists. France in the World combines the intellectual rigor of an academic work with the liveliness and readability of popular history. With a brand-new preface aimed at an international audience, this English-language edition will be an essential resource for Francophiles and scholars alike.

France in the World: A New Global History embarks on a fascinating journey through centuries, tracing the footprints of France across the globe. The book uncovers the profound influences France has cast beyond its borders, weaving through pivotal events that have shaped civilizations. By exploring diverse facets of cultural, economic, and political exchanges, it presents a panoramic view of France’s indelible impact on the world stage.

France's role in global history extends beyond borders influencing political cultural and economic landscapes. Understanding France's intertwined past offers insight into current international dynamics and future possibilities. This book redefines historical narratives by revealing overlooked connections between France and the global community.

The book reveals how France's global entanglements have extended beyond mere colonization to a profound cultural exchange. Its impact resonates through art language and philosophy permeating societies around the world. By unraveling these rich connections the book challenges conventional narratives and invites readers to explore history from a global perspective.

It presents vignettes of history by examining diverse events and periods moving beyond the hexagon's geographic borders. Each chapter captures France’s interactions with diverse cultures and nations providing a compelling narrative that is both informative and engaging. Through these stories it provides a fresh understanding of the intricate web of historical forces at play.

The authors uniquely blend detailed historical research with engaging storytelling bridging the gap between academic scholarship and public history. This approach delivers an immersive reading experience bringing history alive for scholars students and general readers alike. The interplay between France and the world becomes a living breathing entity shaping and reshaping human experience over centuries.

Delving deep into France's diplomatic cultural and economic interactions the book demonstrates how France has navigated and influenced the tumultuous tides of international relations. Rather than a unilateral historical narrative it showcases the complexity and reciprocity of these global interactions revealing a history that is as enlightening as it is interconnected. By illustrating these multi-faceted relationships the book transcends traditional historical approaches offering a nuanced and broader comprehension of France's role in shaping the past and present.

Readers are left with a profound understanding of France’s expansive history and its enduring effects on global narratives.

What sets this book apart is its revolutionary approach to historiography It ventures beyond national boundaries and provides an interconnected view demanding readers reconsider traditional perspectives of historic events involving France The narrative richness lies in the seamless blending of meticulous historical research with compelling relatable stories Each chapter offers an immersive look into various global interactions turning dry facts into vibrant engaging sagas This book also stands out in its accessibility capturing the academic rigor without sacrificing readability It speaks to both learned historians and curious minds ensuring a broad audience can appreciate the vast tapestry of France's global influence.