Summary: The book "The Development of Modern France [1870-1939]" by D.W. Brogan covers the period from the birth of the Republic to the challenges faced by France in the prelude to World War II. The author delves into the political turmoil, military defeats, and social changes that shaped France during this time. From the fall of the Empire to the rise of the Republicans, the Commune, and France's overseas endeavors, the book provides a comprehensive overview of France's development. It highlights the internal struggles, political movements, and international relations that influenced the country's trajectory. The discussion of the French defeat in World War II and the subsequent resurgence of the Resistance adds depth to the narrative, exploring the complexities of French history beyond mere military incompetence. The book also addresses issues such as the decline in French birth rates, social reform movements, and the changing role of the Church in French society. Through a mixture of political analysis and social commentary, Brogan offers a nuanced interpretation of this critical period in French history, shedding light on the forces that shaped the modern nation.