Building the French Empire, 1600-1800: Colonialism and Material Culture

This study explores the shared history of the French empire from the perspective of material culture to re-evaluate the participation of colonial, Creole, and indigenous agency in the construction of imperial spaces. It provides case studies from four parts of the empire, drawing on illustrative evidence from French archives and local archives. The case studies show the mixed group of planners, experts, and workers, the composite nature of building materials, and elements of different 'glocal styles' that give the empire its concrete manifestation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This comprehensive study delves into the intertwined history of the French empire by examining the material culture through a decentralized lens. By adopting a global perspective on the French colonial realm, the study sheds light on the complex power dynamics at play in various regions. Through detailed case studies from four corners of the empire, including the Caribbean, Canada, Africa, and India, the book showcases the diverse group of planners, experts, and workers involved in building projects. It also highlights the composite nature of building materials and the incorporation of elements from different regional styles, resulting in the unique concrete manifestation of the French empire. By drawing on illustrative evidence from French archives in Aix-en-Provence and Paris, as well as local archives in each colonial location, the study provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the empire's development.

Weight: 364g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526167019