REVEALED: What makes the French proud?

"France was the second-highest-ranked country for people saying they felt proud of their history, with 22 percent of people expressing these sentiments. But while foreigners might admire France's beautiful châteaux and well-preserved historic sites, for the French people themselves it was their history of ideas that was the source of the greatest pride."

"Frequently cited was the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen, the document produced at the time of the French Revolution that has been hugely influential in other countries and organisations creating their own charters on human rights. One French woman said she was proud of the 'history and worldwide influence' of her country, specifically its 'commitment to human rights.'"

"A new study by international research institute the Pew Centre places France high among the rankings of nations whose inhabitants express pride in the country. The survey involved some 30,000 people in 25 states around the world, 10 of which in Europe, with researchers creating demographically targeted groups."

Despite France's reputation for complaining, French citizens express significant national pride according to a Pew Centre study of 30,000 people across 25 countries. History ranks as a major source of pride for the French, with 22 percent citing it as a reason. However, French pride focuses primarily on intellectual and political contributions rather than physical landmarks or cultural stereotypes. The Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen, produced during the French Revolution, emerges as a particularly significant source of pride due to its worldwide influence on human rights charters and democratic principles. French respondents emphasized their country's commitment to human rights and its revolutionary legacy of overthrowing monarchy and establishing democratic governance.

Read at The Local France