Examines the historical, economic, and cultural dimensions of France's involvement in the transatlantic slave trade and colonial slavery, and how these systems of exploitation continue to shape contemporary France identity today. From the 15th to the 21st centuries, France profited immensely from the enslavement of African peoples, the exploitation of colonial resources, and the systemic marginalization and dehumanization of Black communities. How do we understand the tensions between France's ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity and its dependence on colonial slavery? This course will explore how slavery and colonialism not only built France's wealth, global influence, and cultural capital but is deeply connected to French cultures and identities. Using an interdisciplinary approach, students will engage with historical texts as well as literature, art and films to understand the enduring legacies of slavery in France's economy, politics, and society. Taught in English.