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Corsica: Metropolitan France
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Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio, on the island of Corsica, on Aug. 15, 1769. It was by chance that the future ruler of France was born a French citizen. His family had migrated to Corsica from the Italian mainland in the 16th century. The island had been transferred from the Republic of Genoa to France one year before Napoleon's birth.
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Rugged, wild and deeply independent, Corsica is known throughout France as 'the isle of beauty'. The 3rd largest island in the mediterranean, it is one of the most beautiful spots in all of France
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The French government is currently looking at granting Corsica unprecedented legislative autonomy. This Matignon Process (the Matignon being the seat of the French prime minister) has been extremely controversial. The process poses deep questions about France's future, with traditionalists arguing that if the concessions are granted, other regions with a strong sense of identity will inevitably claim the same privileges as Corsica. Despite all of this activity, it should be noted that separatists have maintained a strict hands-off policy with regard to tourists themselves.
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In 2000, Prime Minister Lionel Jospin agreed to grant increased autonomy to Corsica in exchange for an end to violence. The proposed autonomy for Corsica would have included greater protection for the Corsican language (Corsu), the island's traditional language (which is ... considered to be a dialect of Italian), whose practice and teaching, like other regional or minority languages in France, had in the past been discouraged. According to the UNESCO classification, the Corsican language is currently in danger of becoming extinct. However, the plans for increased autonomy were opposed by the Gaullist opposition in the French National Assembly, who feared that they would lead to calls for autonomy from other régions (such as Brittany or Alsace), eventually threatening France's unity as a country.
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In May 1769, the French army conquered Corsica and the island became annexed to France. However, Corsican historical and cultural identity is very distinctive. Corsica has its own language - Corsu, its own flag, A Bandera, and national anthem, Diu vi Salvi Regina, that honors the Universal Queen and Mother.
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Far from the hords of summer tourists spring is one of the best season to spend holiday in Corsica. Why not join the few privileged French and Italian travelers who fly across the blue waters to spend their Holiday vacation in sunny Corsica? The Island can be reached by ferry or by plane from France or Italy
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