France since 1870: Culture, Politics and Society

by Charles Sowerwine

This thoroughly revised, updated and expanded new edition of an established text surveys the cultural, social and political history of France from the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 and the Paris Commune through to Emmanuel Macron’s presidency. Incorporating the newest interpretations of past events, Sowerwine seamlessly integrates culture, gender, and race into political and social history. This edition features extended coverage of the 2007-8 financial crisis, the rise of the political and cultural far right and the issues of colonialism and its contemporary repercussions.

This is an essential resource for undergraduate and taught postgraduate students of History, French Studies or European Studies taking courses on Modern French History or European History. This text will also appeal to scholars and readers with an interest in modern French history.
‘Richly informative and lucidly presented, Sowerwine’s France since 1870 offers essential reading for students and researchers. Particularly powerful is the new final chapter, which draws on historical expertise to explore and explain the literary and political malaise of contemporary France.’ – Jessica Wardhaugh, University of Warwick, UK

‘This third edition is unparalleled in its reach and excellence as a history of modern France from 1870 to the present. Sowerwine seamlessly integrates culture, gender, and race into political and social history. His incorporation of the newest interpretations of past events as well as the historical perspective he lends to current events such as terror attacks, new laws regarding labor and marriage, modern globalization, neo-liberalism—as well as to France’s darkening mood--make this highly readable book a true masterpiece.’ – Elinor Accampo, University of Southern California, USA

‘Her recent social and economic challenges have cast deep shadows into the story of modern France that Charles Sowerwine tells so clearly. Those dark questions about culture, politics and society have their full place in this This scholarly but accessible reassessment of French history since 1870. This edition raises new questions about France’s story, directly and compellingly, and remains the key text for readers who are curious about modern France.’ – Julian Wright, Northumbria University, UK

‘Following on the fine precedent set by earlier editions, this masterful survey offers students and the public alike a readable and illuminating account of the tortuous and ever intriguing path of French history since 1870.’ – George Sheridan, University of Oregon, USA

Genres: History, France, Nonfiction, Politics

568 pages, Paperback

First published November 9, 2000

Reviews

[Sheri Fresonke Harper · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book helpful in understanding the background history, politics and culture of France starting at the end of the Franco-Prussian war. The coverage of events like World War I, World War II focus on what the foundation of current difficulties are related to government decision-making.

I really appreciated the overviews of literature and how they related to the general ideas about what denotes a generation's work--Enlightenment, Modernism, Post-Modernism.

I also appreciated the views of political thought, what made politicians socialists, communists, republicans, etc, which looks confusing to outsiders without background. Also covered is how the economy prevailed during various administrations and how they were changed, as well as the differences between the various Republics. It doesn't go into a lot of details about events but highlights key turning points in history as wells as the prevailing thoughts, hopes, desires and the intent to provide for the French citizen.

[Abi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Worth it just for the quotation: 'By my green candle, I do not follow you at all'. Overall a nice, simple skim over a large stretch of French history that manages to be light without being trite, and gives a good overview of the period on which to structure further reading. I only read the Third Republic section, because that was what my module was on, but I'm sure the rest was just as comprehensive.

[Michael Kowalchuk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sowerwine's descriptions of the ever-shifting and evolving political forces that shaped Modern France were particularly useful. The book was detailed, but not meticulously so, and gave a solid overview of Modern French history from the late 19th century to Sarkozy's presidency. Sowerwine comprehensively presented conflicting arguments related to the nature of the Far Right, the legacy of the Vichy regime and the degree to which the French people resisted during the Occupation.

[Joshua]

fantastic survey, very readable well-organized, good politics.. recommend