Bastille Day, the French national holiday, commemorates the storming of the Bastille, which took place on July 14 1789.
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It marked the start of the French Revolution.
Hundreds of years on, here’s a lighthearted look at just France has shared with the world …
THE GALLIC SHRUG
Who better to give an example of the Gallic shrug than footballer Eric Cantona?
Yes, he was the man who explained his on-pitch kung-fu behaviour by saying: “ When the seagulls follow the trawler, it is because they think sardines will be thrown into the sea.”
The only suitable response? A Gallic shrug.
DOGS IN HANDBAGS
Forget Hollywood celebs, the French have been carrying their dogs for years. It’s a fashion statement (apparently).
TOUR de FRANCE
A multiple stage cycle race which is primarily held in France. A mix of mass-start stages, individual time trials, team trials, it is just the odd 3535km in length. And all on a bike seat that bears a canny resemblance to a fence post!
CROISSANTS
Feather-light pastries – of yes, laden with calories – may well have had their origins in Austria. But it was the French, they say, who perfected the snack which is allegedly so much more than butter and flour. Unlike much of the world that has “improved” the recipe to include ham, cheese, tomato and (gasp) hazelnuts, the French, on the whole, are said to prefer the traditional croissant.
CAFE AU LAIT
What better accompaniment to croissants than a cafe au lait? Essentially it is coffee with hot milk added.