From New York Post · · 1m
Why France Can't Claim Greatness
France's riots reveal a crisis of identity and governance.
In brief
France's riots reveal a crisis of identity and governance. France's riots show its inability to sustain national greatness due to economic strain, immigration challenges, and political instability. Originally reported by New York Post.
Paris Riots Begin
Protesters clash with police near Place de la Republique as fires burn and barricades are set up during a protest in Paris, France, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026.
De Gaulle's Warning
In 1959, de Gaulle warned that France could not absorb 10 million Muslims who would become 20 million and then 40 million.
“The Arabs are Arabs, the French are French. Do you think that the French can absorb 10 million Muslims who will tomorrow be 20 million and after tomorrow 40?”
Riots Spread
Riots targeting public buildings and symbols of France have morphed into a red-green campaign of mayhem.
Palestine Slogan
Palestinian flags and the slogan 'Free Palestine' are ubiquitous in the riots.
“Free Palestine”
Immigration Crisis
France has done a poor job of assimilating immigrants and their children, a large portion of whom are Muslims from North Africa.
Political Tensions
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of an ascendant left-wing party, has participated in protests and condemned police for their tactics.
The short version
France's riots show its inability to sustain national greatness due to economic strain, immigration challenges, and political instability.
