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In ancient times France was part of the Celtic territory known as Gaul or Gallia. Since the 17th century France has played a major role in European and world events. In the 20th century it has experienced numerous crises including the devastation of two World Wars and the loss of a large empire. It has however survived and emerged from the ruins of World War.
The Germans captured Paris and claimed the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. Following the defeat, Napoleon III was exiled. The Third Republic emerged in France in 1871, indicating the end of monarchy in France.