Paris is France's capital and largest city with 2.1 million residents (2023). Located on both banks of the Seine river, covering 105 km² area. Known as "City of Light" for extensive street lighting since 19th century
Louis XIV was born in 1638 as the God-given Dauphin of France. His mother Anne became sole regent after his father's death in 1643. The Fronde rebellions during his minority weakened France's power
France's total population reached 68.4 million in 2021. Metropolitan France has 66.1 million inhabitants, overseas France 2.2 million. Population grows by 1 million every three years, 0.6% annually. France remains most fertile EU country with 1.83 fertility rate
Born in Amiens in 1977 to physician parents. Studied philosophy at Paris Nanterre University. Graduated from Sciences Po and École nationale d'administration in 2004
France spans 643,801 km² across Western Europe and overseas territories. Metropolitan France borders Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Andorra, Spain and UK. France has 18 integral regions, including five overseas territories. Metropolitan France covers 551,500 km² with 68.4 million population (2024)
China leads with 31.63% global manufacturing output worth nearly $5 trillion. United States ranks second with 15.9% share, producing $2.5 trillion. Japan follows with 6.5% share, generating $800 billion in 2022