France
Historical Events
51 BC - Rome annexes Gaul
The area of modern France was annexed by Rome, leading to a distinct Gallo-Roman culture.
843 - Treaty of Verdun
The treaty partitioned the Carolingian Empire, leading to the emergence of West Francia.
1337 - Start of the Hundred Years' War
A dynastic conflict with England that lasted until 1453.
1789 - French Revolution
The Revolution overthrew the Ancien Régime and produced the Declaration of the Rights of Man.
1804 - Establishment of the First French Empire
Napoleon Bonaparte declared himself Emperor, extending French influence across Europe.
1870 - Franco-Prussian War
The war led to the collapse of the Second French Empire and the establishment of the Third Republic.
1914 - Start of World War I
France joined the Allies in the conflict, facing immense human and economic losses.
1940 - French Occupation in WWII
France surrendered and was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II.
1944 - Liberation of France
France was liberated from Nazi occupation, leading to the establishment of the Fourth Republic.
1958 - Formation of the Fifth Republic
The current constitution was established with Charles de Gaulle as its first President.