The Man Who Would Be King
The French Revolution, despite its bloody and traumatic nature, has long acted as a warning for aspiring kings and dictators worldwide. France’s 1789 rebellion remains a powerful historical lesson.
Greetings from France, a nation perpetually in crisis. This ongoing turmoil, paired with France’s excellent cuisine, beautiful women, and world-class museums (the Mona Lisa sends her regards!), shaped my fondness for living here for a decade and continuing to return.
The current crisis, much like its predecessors, is characteristically and perplexingly French. In short, the government is overspending, and the entrenched political parties fail to reach an agreement on a tax plan to avoid fiscal troubles.
This deadlock largely stems from the major parties — President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist Renaissance, the center-right Les Républicains, and a significant leftist coalition — viewing political compromise as beneath them. These parties mainly seek to protect their parliamentary positions and block the rising neofascist National Rally from gaining influence.
International Spotlight on Britain
This week, both the French and global audiences are more focused on a power struggle a few miles north. Britain’s King Charles III has revoked all royal titles and privileges from his brother, the former Prince Andrew, including the rights to his 50-room residence near Windsor Castle.
“Britain’s King Charles III just stripped his brother, the former Prince Andrew, of all royal titles and perquisites, including his 50-room residence near Windsor Castle.”
Author's summary: France’s recurring crises reflect deep political divisions and fiscal challenges, while global attention shifts to royal disputes in Britain, illustrating contrasts in leadership struggles.