“U.S. will “run” Venezuela after Maduro’s capture, Trump says. The U.S. captured the Venezuelan president and was taking him to New York to face criminal charges.” [1]
The history of the "Riviera," primarily referring to the glamorous French Riviera (Côte d'Azur), began with ancient settlements, became a Roman province, and later a contested medieval region, but truly blossomed in the late 19th century as a winter resort for British and Russian aristocracy, attracting artists and writers, evolving into a luxury tourist destination post-WWII, built by immigrant labor, and spawning other "Rivieras" like Italy's, with the name signifying a popular, resort-filled coastline.
Royal Patronage: Queen Victoria's visit to Menton in 1882 opened the floodgates for European royalty and high society seeking mild winters.
Golden Age (Late 19th - Early 20th Century)
British & Russian Influx: Attracted by the climate, the wealthy built grand villas, transforming small towns into exclusive winter retreats.
Artistic Hub: The bright light and scenery drew artists like Monet and Picasso, establishing a strong cultural legacy.
Modern Resorts: The region became one of the first modern leisure destinations, with railways and luxury hotels (like the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc) emerging.
Post-War Transformation & Mass Tourism
Post-WWII Boom: The Riviera became a major French economic engine, heavily reliant on tourism, with significant development in roads, airports, and marinas.
Invisible Labor: This boom relied heavily on North African laborers who built the infrastructure but faced social challenges, a history explored in Stephen L. Harp's book.
Iconic Events: The French Riviera became synonymous with glamour, the Monaco Grand Prix, and the Cannes Film Festival.
Modern Era
Enduring Glamour: Despite changes, it remains a premier destination for luxury, culture (like the Lemon Festival), and exclusive events.
Broader Meaning: The term "Riviera" now describes similar desirable coastlines globally, from California to Australia, often with a luxury or leisure focus.
Trump wanted to make Riviera out of Palestinian Gaza. This could be a second Riviera. Too bad, Israel is not able to take Hamas out of tunnels there. Venezuela might be a third Riviera.
1. Breaking news: U.S. will “run” Venezuela after Maduro’s capture, Trump says. New York Times (Online) New York Times Company. Jan 3, 2026.
Komentarų nėra:
Rašyti komentarą