People
Historical Figures and Influential People in History
Explore rulers, generals, thinkers, scientists and reformers who shaped world history. Search for a specific person, or browse by era, region, country and A–Z.
Historical Figures from France
Use the filters on the right to narrow the figure index while keeping the main results in view.
5 results
Charlemagne
742–814Medieval Period
He could barely read but built an empire that stretched across western Europe — and the coronation that defined his legacy was apparently a surprise even to him.
Open profile →
Eleanor of Aquitaine
1122–1204Medieval Period
She was queen of France, then queen of England, was imprisoned by her own husband, outlived him, and spent her eighties managing European diplomacy on behalf of her sons.
Open profile →
Georges Clemenceau
1841–1929Industrial Age
He had been waiting his entire career for France to get its revenge on Germany — and when it finally came, he made sure the peace was as harsh as the victory.
Open profile →
Napoleon Bonaparte
1769–1821Industrial Age
He rose from obscure Corsican origins to master of Europe, then invaded Russia — a decision that set the clock ticking on everything he had built.
Open profile →
Rollo
860–930Medieval Period
He led a Viking raid into northern France, was offered land to stop raiding, and became the founder of Normandy — and the great-great-great-grandfather of William the Conqueror.
Open profile →