The World in Your Hands: A Guide to Every Nation. Vol 04: The World in Your Hands: A Guide to Every Nation., #4

By Marcelo Gameiro

Introducing the ultimate guide to exploring the world, "The World in Your Hands". This comprehensive book provides a wealth of information on every country on the planet (they are in alphabetical order from volume 1 to 10 - each volume will contain 20 countries), covering all aspects of their history, language, food, sports, nature, arts, religion, economy, education, people, culture, music, interesting facts, and geography. Each chapter dives deep into the unique features and characteristics of each country, providing insights into what makes them special and how they contribute to the diversity of our world.

 

Whether you're an avid traveler, a curious learner, or simply someone who wants to expand their knowledge of the world, "All Countries of the World" is the perfect resource for you. With detailed information, this book will take you on a journey across the globe, discovering new and exciting places along the way.

 

To test your comprehension and enhance your learning, multiple choice questions are provided at the end of each country's description, with answers included. Get ready to embark on an adventure like no other with "All Countries of the World" - the ultimate guide to exploring the world's rich and diverse cultures.

• Language: English
• Publisher: MGameiro LLC
• Release date: Jul 25, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224492374

Marcelo Gameiro

►Marcelo Gameiro (born 1970) Londrina-Brazil, ● Military service - 1989, ● LDS mission - 1990 to 1991, ● Agronomy engineer - 1994, ● Master in Remote Sensing - 1997, ● MBA - 1999 (USA), ● Environmental Risk Assessment - 2008, ● TESOL Certificate - 2017 (BYU Idaho - USA). In China as a University teacher since 2018, taught many subjects like International Forward Management / European Union Economics and Policies / Human Resources / International Economic Cooperation / International Settlement / Professional development / Managerial Accounting / how to teach math.

Book preview

​Summary:

Introducing the ultimate guide to exploring the world, All Countries of the World. This comprehensive book provides a wealth of information on every country on the planet, covering all aspects of their history, language, food, sports, nature, arts, religion, economy, education, people, culture, music, interesting facts, and geography. Each chapter dives deep into the unique features and characteristics of each country, providing insights into what makes them special and how they contribute to the diversity of our world.

Whether you're an avid traveler, a curious learner, or simply someone who wants to expand their knowledge of the world, All Countries of the World is the perfect resource for you. With detailed information, this book will take you on a journey across the globe, discovering new and exciting places along the way.

To test your comprehension and enhance your learning, multiple choice questions are provided at the end of each country's description, with answers included. Get ready to embark on an adventure like no other with All Countries of the World - the ultimate guide to exploring the world's rich and diverse cultures.

Note: The text are designed to enhance learning. While the text may not explicitly provide the answers to these questions in some cases, it can provide clues that help to make educated guesses. It is possible that the answers can be found in the text, or they may require additional research.

In other words, the questions are intended to help readers develop a deeper understanding of the text by encouraging them to think critically and engage with the material. By considering the information provided in the text and using it to make informed guesses about the answers, readers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the topic at hand.

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© Copyright May 2023 by Marcelo G. Gameiro - All rights reserved.

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ISBN n. 9798388471376

For the whole 10 Volume series of this collection click the link below:

https://yellowcornbooks.blogspot.com/2023/03/collection-world-in-your-hands.html

Table of contents:

Summary:

061) France

062) Gabon

063) Gambia

064) Georgia

065) Germany

066) Ghana

067) Greece

068) Grenada

069) Guatemala

070) Guinea

071) Guinea-Bissau

072) Guyana

073) Haiti

074) Honduras

075) Hungary

076) Iceland

077) India

078) Indonesia

079) Iran

080) Iraq

061) France

History

France has a rich and complex history that has played a significant role in shaping not only the country itself, but also the world as we know it today. From the Roman Empire to the French Revolution to the world wars, France has seen its fair share of political, social, and cultural upheavals.

The earliest known human presence in what is now France dates back to around 1.8 million years ago, with the discovery of stone tools in the southwestern region of the country. The area was also home to the Gauls, a Celtic people who were conquered by Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire in the first century BCE. The Romans ruled over France for several centuries, leaving a lasting impact on its language, culture, and infrastructure.

In the medieval period, France was ruled by a series of powerful monarchs, including Charlemagne, who was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in the ninth century. The Hundred Years' War between France and England in the 14th and 15th centuries was a defining moment in French history, ultimately leading to the expulsion of the English from French territory.

In the 16th century, France saw a cultural and intellectual renaissance, with artists and thinkers such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michel de Montaigne flourishing under the patronage of the French court. This period also saw the rise of Protestantism, which led to religious wars and ultimately the Edict of Nantes, which granted religious tolerance to the country's Protestants.

The 18th century saw the Enlightenment, a philosophical movement that emphasized reason, scientific inquiry, and individual rights. This era also saw the French Revolution, which began in 1789 and ultimately led to the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the First French Republic. The Revolution had a profound impact on France and the world, leading to the spread of republican and democratic ideals.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, France experienced periods of both prosperity and conflict. The country became a major industrial and colonial power, with its influence spreading throughout the world. However, the two world wars had a devastating impact on France, both in terms of loss of life and damage to its infrastructure. In the aftermath of World War II, France played a key role in the establishment of the European Union, which has helped to promote peace and cooperation throughout the continent.

Today, France is a leading cultural, political, and economic power, known for its contributions to art, fashion, cuisine, and philosophy. Its history has played a significant role in shaping its national identity and its place in the world.

Language

French is the official language of France, and it is spoken by the vast majority of the population. It is also one of the official languages of the United Nations, the European Union, and the International Olympic Committee. French is a Romance language, meaning that it evolved from Latin and is closely related to other Romance languages such as Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.

In addition to French, there are also a number of regional languages spoken in France, such as Breton, Occitan, Alsatian, and Basque. These languages are protected by law and can be taught in schools in the regions where they are spoken. However, French remains the dominant language throughout the country, and it is the language of instruction in schools and universities.

One unique linguistic feature of French is its system of accents and diacritical marks, such as the accent aigu (é) and the cedilla (ç). These marks are used to indicate the pronunciation of certain letters and to distinguish between words that would otherwise be spelled the same. For example, the word été (summer) is pronounced with an accent aigu on the e, while the word eté (been) does not have an accent and is pronounced differently.

There are also a number of French dialects spoken in different regions of the country. These dialects have their own distinct pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, and some are so different from standard French that they are considered separate languages. For example, the dialect of Occitan spoken in the south of France is sometimes called Occitanian and has its own literature and cultural traditions.

People

France has been home to many famous people and notable figures throughout history. Here are just a few examples:

Napoleon Bonaparte - One of France's most famous figures, Napoleon Bonaparte was a military and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution. He went on to become the Emperor of France, and his campaigns of conquest reshaped the map of Europe.

Claude Monet - A founder of the Impressionist movement, Claude Monet is one of France's most celebrated artists. His paintings, which often depict scenes of nature, are renowned for their use of light and color.

Coco Chanel - Born in Saumur, France, Coco Chanel is one of the world's most iconic fashion designers. Her innovative designs, such as the little black dress and the Chanel suit, revolutionized women's fashion in the 20th century.

Victor Hugo - A writer, poet, and playwright, Victor Hugo is considered one of France's greatest literary figures. His works include Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, both of which have been adapted into numerous films, plays, and musicals.

Marie Curie - A physicist and chemist, Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the first person to win two Nobel Prizes in different fields. She discovered the elements polonium and radium, and her work laid the foundation for many modern scientific advancements.

Édith Piaf - A singer and songwriter, Édith Piaf is known for her passionate and emotional performances. Her songs, such as La Vie en Rose and Non, je ne regrette rien, have become classics of the French chanson genre.

Louis Pasteur - A microbiologist and chemist, Louis Pasteur is known for his groundbreaking work on germ theory and pasteurization. His discoveries have had a profound impact on modern medicine and food safety.

Culture

France has a rich and diverse culture that is deeply rooted in its history, customs, traditions, and values. Here are some of the key aspects of French culture:

History: France has a long and complex history that dates back thousands of years. From the Gallic Wars to the French Revolution, France has played a significant role in shaping the course of European history. France has also been home to many famous artists, writers, and philosophers, including Voltaire, Victor Hugo, and Jean-Paul Sartre.

Customs and Traditions: France has a number of customs and traditions that are unique to the country. For example, the French place a high value on food and wine, and meals are often long and leisurely affairs. Another important tradition in France is the bise, a kiss on each cheek that is used as a greeting between friends and family members.

Festivals and Celebrations: France is home to a number of festivals and celebrations throughout the year. One of the most famous is Bastille Day, which commemorates the storming of the Bastille during the French Revolution. Other popular festivals include the Cannes Film Festival, the Tour de France, and the Fête de la Musique.

Art and Architecture: France is home to some of the world's most famous art and architecture, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Palace of Versailles. French art is known for its romanticism and impressionism, with famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Degas.

Social Norms and Etiquette: French social norms and etiquette are unique and important to understand when visiting the country. For example, it is considered rude to interrupt someone while they are speaking, and it is customary to greet people with a handshake or kiss on each cheek. Dress is also important in French culture, and it is expected that visitors dress appropriately when visiting churches or other religious sites.

Food and Drink: French cuisine is world-renowned, with dishes such as coq au vin, ratatouille, and bouillabaisse considered national specialties. French wine is also famous around the world, with regions such as Bordeaux and Burgundy producing some of the finest wines in the world.

In conclusion, France's culture is a rich tapestry of history, customs, traditions, and values that is deeply rooted in the country's past. From its world-renowned art and architecture to its famous cuisine and wine, France is a unique and fascinating country with much to offer visitors and residents alike.

Interesting Facts

France is the most visited country in the world, with more than 89 million visitors annually.

The Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, was originally built as a temporary structure for the 1889 World's Fair.

French is the official language of 29 countries, making it one of the most widely spoken languages in the world.

The Palace of Versailles, located just outside of Paris, was once the principal residence of the French monarchs and is one of the largest and most opulent palaces in the world.

The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a major turning point in French history and had a profound impact on politics and society around the world.

The Louvre Museum in Paris is the largest art museum in the world, with more than 380,000 objects on display.

The Cannes Film Festival, held annually in Cannes, France, is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world and has been showcasing the best in international cinema since 1946.

The French are known for their love of cheese, with more than 400 different types of cheese produced in the country.

French cuisine is renowned around the world for its quality and variety, with dishes such as coq au vin, bouillabaisse, and escargots considered national specialties.

France is home to some of the world's most famous wines, including Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne, and is the second-largest wine producer in the world after Italy.

Music

When it comes to music, France is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse contemporary music scene. French music has influenced many genres around the world, from classical to electronic and hip-hop.

Traditional French music has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages, and includes a variety of regional styles and instruments. One of the most well-known styles is chanson, which originated in the 19th century and is characterized by poetic lyrics and melodic music. Another popular style is musette, a type of folk music that features the accordion as its primary instrument.

Contemporary French music is diverse, with a range of popular genres and artists. French pop music, known as la variété française, is particularly popular and includes artists such as Édith Piaf, Serge Gainsbourg, and Charles Aznavour. In recent years, French electronic music has also gained popularity, with artists such as Daft Punk, Justice, and David Guetta achieving international success.

French hip-hop has also emerged as a popular genre in recent years, with artists such as MC Solaar and IAM achieving mainstream success. French rap often incorporates elements of traditional French music and addresses social and political issues in France.

In addition to these genres, France is also home to a thriving indie and alternative music scene, with artists such as Phoenix and Christine and the Queens achieving international recognition.

Overall, French music is a diverse and vibrant part of the country's cultural landscape, with a rich history and contemporary scene that continues to evolve and inspire artists around the world.

Education

France has a highly centralized education system that is overseen by the Ministry of Education. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16, and the country has a high literacy rate of over 99%.

The education system is divided into several levels, starting with pre-school for children aged 3-6, followed by primary school for ages 6-11. Secondary education is then divided into collège for ages 11-15, and lycée for ages 15-18, with the latter offering a range of academic and vocational programs. The baccalauréat, a comprehensive final exam, is required for students to graduate from high school and gain access to higher education.

France has a strong tradition of higher education, with some of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities, including the University of Paris and the Sorbonne. In addition, the country has several highly respected research institutions, such as the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research (INSERM).

The country's universities are highly selective and competitive, with admission based on academic performance and entrance exams. French universities offer a range of disciplines, from humanities and social sciences to science, engineering, and business.

In recent years, the French government has introduced several educational policies aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of education. These include initiatives to reduce class sizes, increase teacher training, and provide more support for students with disabilities.

Despite these efforts, there are still concerns about the quality and equity of the education system, particularly in disadvantaged areas. The country has also faced criticism for its high drop-out rates and the low percentage of students from lower socio-economic backgrounds who go on to higher education.

Overall, France has a highly regarded education system with a strong focus on academic excellence and research. However, there are ongoing challenges in ensuring equal access and opportunities for all students.

Economy

France has the world's sixth-largest economy and is known for its strong industrial and service sectors. The country is a member of the European Union and has a highly developed and diversified economy, with a GDP of over $2.7 trillion in 2021.

The country's major industries include manufacturing, with a particular focus on automobiles, aerospace, and electronics. France is also a major producer of wine, cheese, and other agricultural products, with its food and beverage industry accounting for a significant portion of its exports.

In terms of international trade, France is a net exporter, with major markets including the European Union, the United States, and China. The country's primary exports include aircraft, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and food products, while its primary imports include crude oil, machinery, and chemicals.

Despite its strong economy, France faces a number of significant challenges, including high unemployment and a large public debt. The country's labor market is highly regulated, making it difficult for businesses to hire and fire employees, which can act as a barrier to job creation. In addition, the country's public spending is high, which has led to concerns about the sustainability of its fiscal policies.

However, France also has a number of opportunities for economic growth, including its highly educated workforce, strong innovation capacity, and large domestic market. The country is also investing in renewable energy and green technologies, which could provide new opportunities for job creation and economic growth.

Overall, while France faces significant challenges in its economy, the country's diversified industrial and service sectors, strong exports, and strategic investments in emerging industries provide opportunities for continued growth and development.

Religion

France is a predominantly Christian country, with approximately two-thirds of the population identifying as Catholic. Protestantism is the second-largest Christian denomination, followed by Eastern Orthodoxy and various other Christian sects. In recent years, the number of people identifying as non-religious has increased, with approximately one-third of the population stating that they do not follow any religion.

Despite the dominance of Christianity in France, the country has a long history of religious diversity, with significant Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities also present. France is also known for its secularism, which is enshrined in the country's constitution and has been a defining characteristic of French society since the French Revolution.

In terms of unique religious practices and celebrations, France has a number of traditions that are specific to Catholicism. One of the most famous is the pilgrimage to Lourdes, a small town in the south of France where, according to Catholic tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to a young girl in 1858. The pilgrimage, which attracts millions of Catholics from around the world each year, involves visiting the grotto where the apparition is said to have occurred and bathing in the spring water that is believed to have healing properties.

Another important Catholic tradition in France is the celebration of Christmas and Easter, which are marked with special church services and family gatherings. The celebration of Epiphany, which falls on January 6th and marks the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus, is also an important religious holiday in France, with the traditional galette des rois (a type of cake) being served to celebrate the occasion.

In addition to Christian traditions, France is also home to significant Jewish and Muslim communities, each of which has its own unique practices and celebrations. For example, the Jewish holiday of Passover is marked with the celebration of the Seder, a ritual meal that commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt. The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the month of Ramadan, is celebrated with special prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts.

Overall, while France is predominantly Christian, the country's religious diversity and tradition of secularism have led to a range of unique practices, customs, and celebrations associated with various religious communities.

Arts

France has a rich artistic heritage, spanning centuries of creative expression across a wide range of mediums. From literature and painting to sculpture, dance, and theater, the country has produced some of the world's most influential artists and movements. Here are some of the most important artistic traditions and movements in France:

Literature: France has a long and storied literary tradition, with writers like Victor Hugo, Gustave Flaubert, and Albert Camus among its most celebrated authors. French literature has been a major influence on world literature, with the French language being widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and expressive languages in the world.

Painting: France has been home to some of the most influential painters in history, from impressionists like Claude Monet and Edgar Degas to post-impressionists like Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh. The Louvre Museum in Paris is one of the world's most important art museums, with an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from around the world.

Sculpture: France is also known for its tradition of sculpture, with artists like Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel among its most famous sculptors. The Musée Rodin in Paris is dedicated to the works of Rodin, with many of his most famous sculptures on display.

Dance: France has been at the forefront of modern dance since the early 20th century, with the Ballets Russes, founded by the Russian choreographer Serge Diaghilev, having a major influence on the development of modern dance in France and beyond. Today, the Paris Opera Ballet is one of the most prestigious ballet companies in the world.

Theater: France has a long history of theater, with the Comédie-Française, founded in the 17th century, being one of the oldest theater companies in the world. French theater has produced some of the most important plays in history, from Molière's comedies to Jean-Paul Sartre's existentialist dramas.

Overall, France has a rich artistic heritage, with literature, painting, sculpture, dance, and theater all playing important roles in the country's cultural history. From classic works to cutting-edge contemporary art, France continues to be a major force in the world of art and culture.

Nature

France is a country that is blessed with a wealth of natural beauty, from rugged coastlines and pristine beaches to majestic mountains and lush forests. Here are some of the most beautiful natural features in France:

The French Alps: The French Alps are one of the most stunning natural features in France, with towering peaks and rugged landscapes that attract skiers, hikers, and nature lovers from around the world. The Mont Blanc massif, which straddles the border between France and Italy, is the highest mountain range in Western Europe and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the world.

The French Riviera: The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is a stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea that is famous for its beautiful beaches, glamorous resorts, and crystal-clear waters. From the bustling city of Nice to the picturesque village of Saint-Tropez, the French Riviera is a paradise for sun seekers and beach lovers.

The Gorges du Verdon: The Gorges du Verdon is a stunning canyon located in the south of France that is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Europe. With its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife, the Gorges du Verdon is a popular destination for hikers, kayakers, and nature lovers.

The Camargue: The Camargue is a unique wetland area located in the south of France that is famous for its wild horses, pink flamingos, and picturesque landscapes. With its salt marshes, lagoons, and sandy beaches, the Camargue is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

The Calanques: The Calanques are a series of narrow, rocky inlets located along the Mediterranean coast near Marseille. With their turquoise waters, towering cliffs, and hidden beaches, the Calanques are a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and swimmers.

France is also home to many beautiful national parks, including the Pyrenees National Park, the Vanoise National Park, and the Mercantour National Park. These parks offer a wealth of opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the country's natural beauty.

Overall, France is a country that is blessed with a wealth of natural beauty, from its rugged coastlines and pristine beaches to its majestic mountains and lush forests. With so many stunning natural features to explore, France is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Sports

France is a country that is passionate about sports and has a rich sporting culture. Sports in France are an integral part of the country's identity, and many sports are deeply ingrained in the country's cultural fabric. Here are some of the most popular sports in France:

Football (Soccer): Football is by far the most popular sport in France and is followed by millions of people. The French national football team has won numerous major international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship. French football clubs, such as Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique de Marseille, are also well-known worldwide.

Rugby: Rugby is another popular sport in France, especially in the south-west of the country. The French national rugby team has a long history of success, and the sport is deeply ingrained in the country's cultural fabric.

Tennis: Tennis is another popular sport in France, and the country has produced many great tennis players over the years, including Yannick Noah, Amélie Mauresmo, and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. The French Open, one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, is held annually in Paris and is one of the most prestigious tennis events in the world.

Cycling: Cycling is another sport that is deeply ingrained in French culture, and the country has a long history of success in the sport. The Tour de France, one of the most prestigious cycling events in the world, is held annually in France and attracts millions of spectators.

Basketball: Basketball has become increasingly popular in France in recent years, and the French national basketball team has enjoyed a lot of success