Is Britain and France Still At Odds After Historical Rivalries?

Historical animosities between Britain and France run deep, and some might still recall Voltaire's biting remark: "Oui, je suis contre les Anglais et volontiers tout contre les Anglaises."

However, the reality is quite different today. The age-old feuds and rivalries have long been relegated to the annals of history. What remains today is a mutual understanding and even a playful banter that signifies a bond of friendship rather than enmity.

A Historical Overview of the Rivalries

Traditionally, England and France have often been depicted as bitter rivals, especially during the medieval period when they were frequently embroiled in conflict. The Plantagenet kings, the ruling family of England, also held power over much of France. The loss of Calais, the last English foothold in France in 1558, marked a significant turning point in these relations.

In the Colonial era, both nations competed fiercely for territories around the world. It wasn't until the rise of Wilhelm II's Germany that Britain and France found common ground and began to cooperate more closely.

The Hundred Years' War: A Closer Look at the Rivalry

The question often asked is whether the British and French are still resentful over the Hundred Years' War. To answer this, it's essential to clarify that the conflict wasn't between the "British" and the "French." Instead, it was the Plantagenet English royal family and the Capetian French royal family who were at odds. The war wasn't one country against another but rather one king against another king.

The roots of the Hundred Years' War can be traced back to Edward III of England and his claim to the French throne. This claim was based on his lineage: he was a great-grandson of Phillip IV of France through his mother, Isabella of France. The main obstacle was the Salic Law, which excluded females from inheriting the French throne. The controversy did not lie in the invention of these laws but in their application. France's male line had died out, and as a result, Philip VI of the House of Valois was crowned king.

Modern Franco-British Relations

Today, both nations share a deep bond that transcends historical enmities. The British and French frequently engage in a playful yet respectful banter. This banter is often seen as a sign of mutual affection and understanding, rather than hostility. The British often make fun of the pomposity of the French, while the French (and sometimes French people in Britain) joke about the British obsession with tea and marmalade.

This relationship is acutely visible in the numerous cultural exchanges, economic partnerships, and political collaborations that exist between the two countries. From the annual Tour de France broadcast in the UK to the large French communities in places like Paris and London, there is a shared culture that unites them.

Conclusion

The historical rivalries between Britain and France, while once intense, have largely faded into the background. What remains is a deep and evolving relationship that is built on mutual respect, shared history, and a spirit of friendship. Far from resenting each other over the Hundred Years' War, the British and French now enjoy a relationship based on cooperation, understanding, and a deep appreciation for each other's heritage.