France and the Benelux
Countries
Background Info about
France
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It’s the largest country in Western Europe.
It borders the Atlantic Ocean, Alps
Mountains, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Kings ruled this territory until the French
Revolution ( 1789 )
France has gone back and forth between
monarchy and democracy throughout
history.
History
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Just like Great Britain, France became a
powerful nation and had colonies in Africa
and Asia.
These colonies help boost France’s
economy.
Unfortunately France was torn up during the
1900s as World Wars I and II was fought
here. Millions of people died, tons of
destruction (factories, homes, buildings,
etc.) and the destruction of cities killed the
French economy.
France’s Economic
History
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Shortly after these wars during the 1960s
and 1970s, French colonies in Africa and
Asia began to gain their independence. This
was another blow to the economy.
The people’s hard work and access to
natural resources have allowed France to
recover.
Tourism is a major industry as France has
been the world’s top tourist destination for
several years.
Culture
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Very diverse culture that is very proud of its
French culture, history, and language.
Many Muslims live in France, even though
the country is primarily Roman-Catholic.
3 out of 4 people live in cities.
People live in apartments more than houses.
People ride public transportation or walk
around to get from place to place; parking
on city streets is very restricted.
Culture
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THE FOOD IS AMAZING AND FAMOUS!
Chefs from around the world try to master
French techniques.
French chefs are well-known for creating
excellent dishes
July 14: Bastille Day – This is similar to
the U.S. 4th of July as the French
celebrate their nation and culture with
fireworks and parades. During this
celebration they celebrate their French
independence.
Parliamentary Democracy
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Parliamentary Democracy
Power mostly
at National
Level
Executive
Legislative
Judicial
All branches of government
function the same as the
United States except:
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The executive branch includes a
President and a Prime Minister
France’s president serves a 5-year
term and takes care of foreign affairs
The president chooses a prime
minister who takes care of the daily
operation of the government.
What would you see in
France if you were to visit?
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Many museums, castles, and
cathedrals
What is the most famous landmark in
Paris, France?
THE EIFFEL TOWER!!!
The Benelux Countries
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Benelux – an economic union of
countries that include the Netherlands,
Belgium, and Luxembourg.
The name Benelux comes for the first
few letters of each country’s name
The Netherlands
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Dutch claimed their independence
from Spain in 1581 but was recognized
as an independent country by Spain in
1648.
1600s – tremendous prosperity and
achievement for the Dutch
– Became a great sea power with colonies
in Southeast Asia and the Americas
The Netherlands
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Official Language: Dutch. But many
people also speak English, German,
and French