French-American Relations

A major contention of French-American Relations is that the American experience during WWII illustrates "the decency of the American people" (Abraham Lincoln), and gives meaning to the special bond that exists between the two nations. The book points to the differences that exist on both sides of the Atlantic, but also to the common heritage, history, and values that both people share. Its main thesis is that revisiting the experiences at Normandy enables readers to question and envision the paths both nations must take in a post-September 11 world. Professor Touya de Marenne's reflection unfolds through a series of dialogues with American and French veterans who were actively involved in the liberation of France and the defeat of fascism in Europe in 1944-1945. Exploring this relation in the context of current issues (the dialogue among cultures, the challenges of globalization and terrorism, the fate of democracy and civilization, and the path toward peace in the world), this study provides a balanced view and perpetuates the long debate that two of the oldest modern democracies have pursued for over two hundred years.