Background: Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state. Nevertheless, France today is one of the most modern countries in the world and is a leader among European nations. Since 1958, it has constructed a presidential democracy resistant to the instabilities experienced in earlier parliamentary democracies. In recent years, its reconciliation and cooperation with Germany have proved central to the economic integration of Europe, including the introduction of a common exchange currency, the euro, in January 1999. At present, France is at the forefront of efforts to develop the EU's military capabilities to supplement progress toward an EU foreign policy.
July 15th 2008Europe » France » Auvergne » Clermont-Ferrand We decided this beautiful, sunny morning, having no set agenda for the day, to head back to Puy-de-Dome region and visit Clermont-Ferrand. It was quite an interesting visit because we had no idea what ... 7 photos[full story]
June 27th 2008Europe » France » Auvergne » Clermont-Ferrand June 25, 26, 2008
AUVERGNE REGION, France
Our journey from Geneva took us across a small mountain range through some very beautiful countryside to Clermont-Ferrand. We were pleasantly surprised ... [full story]
May 16th 2008Europe » France » Auvergne » Clermont-Ferrand Friday 16th May
Over breakfast Marion explained Owen's deprivations of the night before (in somewhat less heart-rending tone than he employed) to our hostess. She was incredibly embarrassed and si ... 7 photos[full story]
February 22nd 2008Europe » France » Auvergne » Clermont-Ferrand I as in Clermont-Ferrand "Michelin Capital" (pop. 140,000 - night-life pop - 8) for the 3rd EGEE User Forum, basically when all of the people who are actually using the technology get together, explai ... [full story]
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