French in United States

Introduction / History

In the 4th century AD, Gaul's eastern frontier along the Rhine was overrun by Germanic tribes, principally the Franks, from whom the ancient name of "Francie" was derived. The Franks were the first tribe among the Germanic conquerors of Europe after the fall of the Roman Empire to convert to Catholicism. France obtained the title "Eldest daughter of the Church," and the French would adopt this as justification for calling themselves "the Most Christian Kingdom of France."

Existence as a separate entity began with the Treaty of Verdun in 843. Charlemagne's Carolingian Empire was divided into East, Middle, and West Francia. West Francia approximated the area occupied by modern France and was the precursor to modern France. The Carolingian dynasty ruled France until 987, when Hugh Capet, Duke of France and Count of Paris, was crowned King of France. His descendants progressively unified the country through a series of wars and dynastic inheritance.

The monarchy reached its height during the 17th century during the reign of Louis XIV. At this time, France possessed the largest population in Europe and had tremendous influence over European politics, economy and culture. French became the common language of diplomacy in international affairs and remained thus until the 20th century. Much of the Age of Enlightenment occurred in French intellectual circles, and major scientific breakthroughs were achieved by French scientists in the 18th century.

In addition, France obtained many overseas possessions in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. France maintained colonial possessions, in various forms, beginning early in the 17th century and lasting until the 1960s. Their once vast colonial holdings meant that they now live in many parts of Africa and Southeast Asia. Today, the French live not only in their own country, but over 100 others as well. That includes the United States.

A large portion of the French diaspora is in the United States, but they are under-represented in that country compared with many other ethnic groups.

The French came as explorers and fur trappers before the United States was a country. They were not well-established enough to maintain their claims. The best known French settlements were in Louisiana, which at the time was almost 1/3 of what is now the continental United States. That included many of today’s Midwestern states. The US bought Louisiana from France during the Jefferson administration, but a small number of French people remained. There was a small number of French who migrated from Quebec to Maine in search of jobs in the mills and logging camps. Others migrated to California during the 1849 gold rush.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The French language is being replaced by English among them. It is difficult for the French in the US to maintain their language and culture.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Approximately one-half of the French population consider themselves to be Roman Catholic and one-third consider themselves agnostic or atheist. Many have adopted New Age spirituality.

What Are Their Needs?

The French are considered "post-Christian" by many Evangelical theologians. No matter where they live, the French need to meet people who demonstrate biblical Christianity in their everyday lives to understand why they need Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray for God to send loving laborers to the French people no matter where they live.

Pray for workers who understand the French mindset and have the discernment how to approach them with the gospel.

Pray that soon there will be French people who love the Lord discipling others who will disciple others.

Pray for the French to turn their backs on New Age spiritual answers and recognize the lordship of Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project