The Complex Love-Hate Relationship Between the English and the French
The relationship between the English and the French has been one of the most enduring and multifaceted in European history. Over the centuries, these two nations have alternated between periods of alliance and conflict, making the relationship a proverbial love-hate story.
The Historical Context
Robert Tombs, a renowned professor of French history at Cambridge University, delves into this complex relationship in his book 'That Sweet Enemy'. Tombs traces the origins of this relationship back to the 17th century, highlighting a history marked by both cooperation and competition.
Key Points in History
There have been several crucial points in history that have shaped the relationship between England and France. For instance, after the 2nd restoration of the Bourbons in 1815, the relationship saw another shift following the signing of the Entente Cordiale in 1904. This treaty marked an agreement that France and England would cooperate in matters of mutual interest, rather than compete for supremacy in Europe.
Historic Conflicts and Collaborations
Despite the cooperation agreed to in 1904, the relationship between the two nations has been characterized by a series of conflicts, particularly during times of war. During World War II, when France was under Nazi occupation, the British, under de Gaulle, played a crucial role in organizing resistance against the Germans. Yet, the post-war period saw gratitude turn sour as France opposed British entry into the EC (European Community), showcasing the resilience of historical animosities.
Norman Conquest and Cultural Influence
The Norman Conquest, which brought William, Duke of Normandy, to the English throne in 1066, set the stage for a complex relationship between the two countries. William was the great-great-grandson of Rollo, a Viking leader, and while he was crowned King of England, his lineage was rooted in France. This led to a unique blend of French and English cultures, particularly among the nobility, which spoke French and was culturally similar to the French for centuries.
Conflicts and Rivalries
The relationship between England and France has been marked by numerous conflicts, most famously the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453), a conflict that saw the English nobility and ruling class engage in fierce competition with their French counterparts. These conflicts, while brutal, did not erase the underlying similarities between the two peoples and their cultures.
However, historians and contemporary analysts argue that while there is residual animosity due to these conflicts, much of the modern relationship between the two nations can be attributed to a broader pattern of historical rivalry. Britain has historically opposed any power that threatened its influence, whether it was France, Spain, or Germany. This competition for dominance and influence has been the driving force behind many of the conflicts and periods of cooperation between the two nations.
Modern Relationships and Future Prospects
Today, despite a long history of conflicts and rivalries, the relationship between the English and French is often characterized as a 'historic rivalry.' Both nations continue to navigate each other's interests in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. However, a careful analysis reveals that the relationship is more complex than a simple opposition. In recent years, both countries have found ways to collaborate, particularly in the realm of economy and culture, suggesting a potential for long-term stability and cooperation.