French Foreign Policy

French Foreign Policy 1870-1914

In the immediate aftermath of the Franco-Prussian war, France had signed the Treaty of Frankfurt. It angered many French men, and led to a deep hatred of Germans and a desire for revenge. As Thiers said ‘Think of it always, speak of it never’. Although the 5 billion Franc indemnity was cleared quickly the burden of Alsace-Lorraine remained. France also wanted to re-establish herself as a great power. Nonetheless, French politicians realised they could never overcome Germany on their own. Potential allies were not forthcoming and were suspicious of the republican regime. At the same time, Bismarck’s complicated web of alliances ensured France was kept isolated. Seeking compensation and encouraged to do so by Bismarck, French foreign policy concentrated on the acquisition of colonies.

Jules Ferry particularly prompted the ‘expansive urge’ of the 1880’s. They expanded their empire to include areas such as Algeria, Tubis, Cochin China, Mad...