In this video, the teacher explores the etymology of traditional trades and professions. They discuss the origins of words like butcher, baker, candlestick maker, cobbler, carpenter, and blacksmith. The teacher also introduces the...

We use words left behind by the Romans every day. Their encounters with the Germanic tribes caused Latin words to slip into our language before it even became "English". In this video let's explore all the words that we've borrowed from...

Visit Yorktown, Virginia to see the decisive battle of the American Revolution

Tracy Slater describes two college professors—Ronna Johnson in English and Claire Schub in French—who profoundly shaped her love of literature, writing, and independent scholarship. Their deep passion for their subjects inspired her to...

We've covered the United States and Canada. today, we cross the Atlantic to discuss the healthcare System in France. Their system is a combination of universal social insurance with some optional private overlays. It's expensive...

French humor can be farcical, coarse, or extremely literate. Indeed, it can be situational, bitingly sarcastic, and heavy on the intellectual wit. The French tend to be self-deprecating—although, like most people, they'd rather not be...

Relocating to France? You'll find many options for housing ranging from multistory apartments to quaint cottages. It probably comes as no surprise that rents are higher for smaller spaces in Paris. The French tend not to mix public and...

In France, it's considered inexcusable to be bored—and it’s even worse to be boring. Learn more about cultural do’s and don’ts and making a good local impression. The French take pride in their nation’s intellectual history and enjoy...

It’s probably no surprise that food is a valued part of French culture. Learn more about common French dining habits and preferences for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Review detailed appropriate dining practices and table etiquette so...

Since the Revolution of 1789, France has had five forms of republican government. The current republic, the Fifth Republic, began in 1958. Learn more about the evolution of the constitution and the impact on modern French society....

Did you know that France is a leading industrialized country with one of the world's largest economies? In fact, it's a main global exporter. Learn more about France’s key economic sectors and industries. Explore the country’s role and...

France's contribution to the arts has influenced global attitudes and thinking for centuries. The French take great pride in the historical significance of their culture, which is showcased in the country's more than one thousand...

Since the French Revolution, the republic’s motto has been “Liberté, égalité, fraternité” (“Liberty, equality, brotherhood”), which certainly says something about French attitudes. In France, however, generalizations don't always apply....

The French believe strongly in the separation of church and state, and the constitution notes the secular foundation of the country’s principles. French secular attitudes permeate many aspects of daily life. In fact, in an effort to...

France’s per capita gross domestic product might be lower than that of the US by more than a third, but the state provides significant subsidies for education, health care, transportation, and childcare. French salaries are higher than...

Curious about France’s demographics? The country has a population of more than 60 million, with 15 percent concentrated in the Paris metropolitan area—although many city-dwellers still identify with and appreciate their rural roots. The...

Curious about when and how to exchange business cards in France? You’re not alone. Learn more about what’s included on business cards and the proper protocols for exchanging them. Review appropriate ways to address colleagues, both...

In France, what's left unsaid is often more eloquent than what is verbalized. Curious about how to read French body language and interpret gestures such as smiles or eye contact? Learn more about how the French subtly use body language...

Overall, the French tend to be risk-averse and inflexible. The many layers of middle management tend to make French companies cautious and resistant to change. Explore how businesses have traditionally been cautious in decision-making;...

Developing trust is important in any business scenario, but the French are particularly slow to trust others, both in business transactions and in social situations. Learn how the country's rural culture has influenced this preference to...

Curious about local management practices in France? Learn more about what's expected of foreign managers. Understand the importance of French culture and how it impacts local management practices, including projects and employees. Review...

The French love a good controversy! At times, it can seem that the whole country’s a debating team. In contemporary times, there has been the usual serving of political scandals and allegations, immigration issues, foreign cultural...

Negotiating in France is all about business. Verbal agreements are seldom binding in France. While written agreements are essential, developing trust is key to preserving long-term, fluid business relationships. Review nuances and tips...

France's competitive business culture is evolving, becoming more pragmatic with a focus on economic expansion. Global technology and capital flows are nudging French industry to champion more efficient business processes and...