Happy Bastille Day

The Storming of the Bastille in Paris occurred on 14 July 1789. While the medieval fortress and prison in Paris known as the Bastille contained only seven prisoners, its fall was the flashpoint of the French Revolution, and it subsequently became an icon of the French Republic. In France, Le quatorze juillet (14 July) is a public holiday, formally known as the Fête de la Fédération (Federation Holiday). It is usually called Bastille Day in English.

France Chooses Conservative for New President

French voters chose a conservative to be their president by a 53% to 47% margin Saturday. Nicolas Sarkozy is the new president. He had friendly words for America in his victory speech. He called Americans his "Friends" and said that France will stand with America when we need them. He did add the caveat that friends can disagree. It will be interesting to see if a new conservative leader in Europe can change attitudes and do some good.