French history

馃彴 Explore French history: key events and figures

Beyond its landscapes and cuisine, France is a land with a rich and fascinating history. This page invites you to discover major historical events and iconic French figures, both famous and forgotten, who have shaped the nation over the centuries.

馃嚝馃嚪 French historical figures to know

From the Chevalier de La Barre, symbol of freedom of thought, to Clémenceau, a major political figure, via the Baroness of Roche, the first female aviator in history, and the first female executioner, these historical French figures tell the story of a country with many faces. Each name embodies an era, a struggle, and a human or social advance.

 

 

馃摎 Understanding France through its great figures

To better understand French identity, there is nothing more fascinating than delving into the lives of its remarkable men and women. These French destinies bear witness to commitment, innovation, but also struggles for justice, freedom, and equality. It is another way to discover France: through its human stories.

 

Discover French history

Discover French historical women

Discover French people who made history

If not, feel free to browse this page to find out more about France and those who have left their mark on it.

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French history
French history France

Jeanne Barret: the first woman to sail around the world

French history
French history France Overseas

Who invented vanilla?

French history
French history Poitou-Charentes / Nouvelle Aquitaine

Who invented the guillotine?

French history
French history Brittany

History's first female pirate was French

French history
French history Haute-Normandie / Normandy

Who was Rollon, the first Duke of Normandy?

French history
French history Basse Normandie / Normandy

Who invented the motorcycle?

French history
French history Lorraine / Grand Est region

Who was the bearded lady?

French history
French history France

Who was Pierre de Coubertin?

French history
French history Paris and Ile de France

Executioners from father to son: the Sansons family