Customer Reviews
A classic precis - By: , 30 Dec 2004 
To attempt to cover 45 odd years of French historyin a short-book is almost foolhardy. Gildea, however, through his planning & preparation is able to offer authority & insight even when dealing with eventsin brief fashion. For a student of France or for an inquisitive individual wanting to understand more about how the past has shaped the present within the Hexagon this is an excellent digest.
Good start - By: S. A. Richmond, 10 Sep 2003 Really enjoyed this book as it cover all the major eventsin France after the war. Thankfully it covered not just political events, but the major changesin French culture, prosperity, & attitude (including the special status of their farmersin the national psyche). I really enjoyed reading this book, & would certainly recommend it to anyone curious but not too familiar with the French.
excellent introduction, and an easy and entertaining read - By: Soru Takahashi, 09 Apr 2003 
The innovative organisation of this book is what really distinguishes it from other works. Instead of simply trudging through the historical eventsin chronological order, each chapter focuses on a particular theme, such as the impact of the warin Algeria, or the treatment of womenin French society. Not only does this make the book very entertaining, as it gives the reader a multi faceted look into post war French history which is often absentin other books; it also makes it very easy to read, as each chapter is self contained. The critical viewpoint evidentin many places is also welcome, as there are too many books on France written by people who seem to idealise the country & overlook its faults. Allin all, an excellent introduction into the subject, & highly recommended for people with a passing interestin modern France.
