Belle Époque

The Belle Époque was a period roughly from the late 19th century to World War I (circa 1871–1914) in France and Western Europe, characterized by cultural flourishing, technological innovation, and economic prosperity. It was marked by artistic creativity, the popularity of new styles like Art Nouveau, and advances in science and industry. People experienced relative peace and enjoyed urban entertainment, fashion, and leisure activities. This era fostered optimism and optimism about progress, but it also masked underlying social and political tensions that eventually led to upheaval in the early 20th century.