First the Statue of Liberty, then this guy. I like France.

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The discussion centers around the complex relationship between Americans and the French, sparked by a positive comment made by a French individual about Barack Obama. The initial poster expresses a newfound appreciation for America, influenced by the French perspective. This leads to a broader conversation about historical grievances, such as the French refusal to allow U.S. military use of their airspace and perceptions of French snobbery. Participants debate the reasons behind American disdain for the French, citing World War II memories and cultural differences. Some argue that the dislike is rooted in nationalism and historical context, while others suggest that negative feelings are often exaggerated or based on stereotypes. The dialogue also touches on how perceptions can shift based on personal experiences and interactions, highlighting the nuances of international relations and cultural misunderstandings. Overall, the thread reflects a mix of admiration, frustration, and humor regarding the American-French dynamic.
  • #31
Art said:
The French I think look down on the Americans as they believe them to be culturally uncouth
That's their attitude to everyone - the only people more arrogant than the french are Parisians.

but their real loathing is reserved for the English.
Well we have had nearly 900year head start - give it time.

When I told them I was Irish after which they couldn't have been nicer.
Any enemy of the English will do.
 
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  • #32
mgb_phys said:
That's their attitude to everyone - the only people more arrogant than the french are Parisians.


Well we have had nearly 900year head start - give it time.


Any enemy of the English will do.

The French are nice to the Irish?! Since when?

French are pretty nationalistic and so are most other Euronations ... my guess is that they are simply nationalistic and most of them have the time of day to have a good ol' conversation about how much they dislike the US.
 
  • #33
The French are nice to the Irish?! Since when?
I think it's more like the 'auld alliance' where the scots and french were able to put aside religous, philosphical and cultural differences to unite in a common bond of hating the English.
 
  • #34
GCT said:
so are most other Euronations ... my guess is that they are simply nationalistic and most of them have the time of day to have a good ol' conversation about how much they dislike the US.

Any source of that claim, or is it your own opinion?
 
  • #35
On a similair note - why do the Americans tell Irish jokes about the poles?
The stereotype of poles in the UK is that they are all hard working plumbers and builders that actually finish the job and time and budget.
 
  • #36
mgb_phys said:
On a similair note - why do the Americans tell Irish jokes about the poles?
The stereotype of poles in the UK is that they are all hard working plumbers and builders that actually finish the job and time and budget.

Americans tell jokes about the poles? Are you crazy? I have nothing but the utmost respect and admiration for the Poles. There are no finer people on the earth.
 
  • #37
Borek said:
Any source of that claim, or is it your own opinion?

Many nations have adopted a " pan-regional " endeavor of securing values and heritage - especially those that have been invaded many times e.g. tribal England by the Romans and then the Anglo Saxons and also China by Japan. Nationalistic countries have the tendency of regarding themselves as inclusive and unique ; and are usually comprised majorily by one more or less homogenous group with several minority groups.

Are the Polish nationalistic? My guess is that they adhere to culture however there isn't one majority group of people that claims Poland.
 
  • #38
The French people I know are especially kind and wonderful, and I'd say much the same about people from all countries I've met, including English, other Europeans and Americans. If French people do seem to like us and we are Australian, does that mean that we are enemies of the English? I hope not.
 
  • #39
fuzzyfelt said:
If French people do seem to like us and we are Australian, does that mean that we are enemies of the English? I hope not.
That's only because the French don't play cricket against you.
 
  • #40
There is an awful lot of generalisation here. I'd guess that all populations have a range of good/bad people whatever that may be.

There is too much globalization going on to have those little feuds.