France+during+the+depression

== **FRANCE DURING THE DEPRESSION ** ==

During the 1920’s, France's economy was doing well. The French currency had been undervalued since it was part of the “gold standard”, which meant that goods were cheap and sold well in the world markets. In the thirties, this all changed. When other countries left the gold standard, France stayed in it. The currency of other nations were devalued and in turn, goods coming out of France became expensive in world markets. The lack of demand for the high priced goods caused their exports to fall by forty-two percent. Still though, the French government didn't want to leave the gold standard. The government believed the gold standard meant 'prestige', and gave them status as a “high-end” country. As an alternative, they began balancing out their problems by raising taxes and cutting public spending. Unemployment became a huge problem, and as a way of fixing this issue the government began deporting foreign workers to get the French-born populace back into work. Around one million Polish, Italian and Algerian workers were sent back to their countries. This meant only about half a million people were out of work, a fairly small number when compared to nearby countries like Britain and Germany. Many French people who were unable to find jobs in the city moved to the countryside where they would be supplied a bed and some food by family.


 * Summary : **


 * French economy doing well in the 1920's.
 * French currency undervalued : meant goods were cheap and sold well
 * France stays in Gold Standard: thought this would give them prestige.
 * French goods become expensive : demand drops.
 * Exports fell by 42%.
 * Government attempts to balance problem by raising taxes and cutting public spending.
 * Foreign workers deported to get French-born populace back into work.
 * Only half a million people out of work, a small number compared to neighbouring countries.


 * Sources:**
 * Student Workbook
 * Howarth Textbook
 * Google Images

By Shelby Slater