French immigrants and pioneers in the making of America

"Americans have long held a complicated relationship with France. On the one hand, Americans adore all things French, including food and fashion, as well as visiting the country and learning the language. Historically, they have also been quick to blame France in times of international crisis, like for their non-engagement the Iraq War, or even domestic problems. Despite several ups and downs, however, the friendship between the countries remains strong. The author explains the strength of Franco-American relations lies in the diplomatic ties that extend back to the founding of the United States, but more importantly, in the French DNA that is imprinted on American culture. The French were the first Europeans to settle the regions now known as Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri, Kansas and Arkansas--and Frenchman remained in Louisiana after the land was purchased by the United States. This book explores the effects that France has had on American culture, and why modern Americans of French descent are so fascinated by their ancestry"--