The birth of the Alliance française is linked to the French history:
After the defeat of 1870 (that marks the end of the Empire and the beginning of the third Republic), France works to the reconstruction of its country , and needs to regain a renowned place in the world.
In Paris, the French ambassador Paul Cambon, together with Paul Bert, Pierre Foncin, and Louis Liard, are the personalities who decide to create an association to "maintain and spread the French culture by the propagation of its language". The move arouses interest in France as well as abroad. Important people, such as Ferdinand de Lesseps, Louis Pasteur, Jules Verne join the Alliance Française in Paris. The foundation of the Alliance Française is officially declared on March 10, 1884. By that date, 30 000 people were already members of the organization.
The Alliance Française is a non-profit organization that promotes the understanding of French language and culture around the world. Represented in more than 100 countries, the Alliance Française offers French classes at all levels and sponsors many different events. The Alliance Française of Paris is the center of all branches of the alliances. It offers French language classes, teacher training, translation courses, and various certificates and diploma achievements related to French studies, including the DELF/DALF French proficiency tests. Each affiliate of the Alliance Française offers its own schedule of events.
The Alliance Française in the Unites States:
In the United States of America, the Alliance is part of a federation created in March 1902 in New York. The headquarter of the federation is located in Washington D.C., and it regroups 137 chapters. A permanent office appears in 1982 with the creation of a general representative and the allocation of several French teachers. Today, at least 60 chapters propose French courses and cultural activities. The actual president of the federation of Alliances is Mrs. Jane Robert.
The Alliance Française in Knoxville:
In Knoxville, the Alliance Française was founded in 1959 by Fanny Emerson. Since then, our organization maintains its goal in a friendly spirit. The Alliance of Knoxville is a volunteer organization existing thanks to the devotion of our board and the participation of our members.
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