The Religious Persecution in France 1900-1906

"The Religious Persecution in France 1900-1906" by J. Napier Brodhead, is a detailed historical exploration of the early 20th-century clash between the Catholic Church and the French Republic. Brodhead's writing examines the anti-religious atmosphere and legal actions implemented to reduce the Church’s power, specifically from 1900 to 1906. Brodhead, drawing from his time in France, points out how many Americans didn't understand the Church's real situation, which leads to how the French government tried to control the clergy and restricted religious schools and money, which he views as wrong and against important historical agreements. He shows the deep divide in France between those turning away from religion and devout Catholics, setting the stage to discuss how new laws affected Christian groups and the cultural and spiritual impact of this conflict.