1. How did the "civilizing mission" ideology both resemble and differ from other European powers' justifications for colonialism?
2. What role did economic interests play versus ideological motivations in French colonial expansion?
3. How did early resistance movements challenge French colonialism, and what can we learn from their strategies?
The Colonial Empire at Its Height
1. How did the different models of French colonialism (direct rule, protectorates, etc.) affect post-independence relationships?
2. What were the unintended consequences of colonial education policies?
3. How did World Wars I and II transform colonizer-colonized relationships?
Resistance and Independence Movements
1. Compare the different paths to independence (negotiated vs. armed struggle). What factors determined which path was taken?
2. How did intellectuals like Fanon and Césaire influence both independence movements and Western thought?
3. What role did women play in independence struggles, and how were their contributions recognized or marginalized?
Decolonization and Its Aftermath
1. To what extent was decolonization "flag independence" versus genuine sovereignty?
2. How do mechanisms like the CFA franc perpetuate colonial relationships?
3. What alternatives to neo-colonial arrangements have been attempted, and why have they succeeded or failed?
Immigration and the Transformation of France
1. How has immigration from former colonies transformed French society, culture, and identity?
2. What are the main barriers to full equality for French citizens of immigrant origin?
3. How do second and third generations navigate between multiple identities and belongings?
Economic Legacies and Contemporary Relations
1. What would genuine economic decolonization look like?
2. How do contemporary trade relationships reproduce colonial patterns?
3. What role do remittances play in maintaining family and national economies?
Cultural Exchange and Identity
1. How has francophone literature/music/art from former colonies influenced global culture?
2. What are the implications of Africa becoming the center of French language demographics?
3. How do cultural exchanges challenge or reinforce power imbalances?
Contemporary Challenges and Future Directions
1. What would it take for France to truly reckon with its colonial past?
2. How are youth movements reshaping discussions about identity and belonging?
3. What models exist for creating genuinely equal post-colonial relationships?
General Questions
1. How does France's approach to its colonial legacy compare with other former colonial powers?
2. What lessons from this history apply to contemporary global inequalities?
3. How might climate change reshape relationships between France and former colonies?
4. What gives you hope for more equitable futures? What concerns you most?
5. How do individual stories throughout the book illustrate larger historical patterns?