Intro to Comparative Government: January 2014

17,000 people protested in Paris against President Hollande: "Carrying banners saying “The French are angry!” Sunday’s demonstration by people from about 50 organizations cited France’s struggling economy and high unemployment, its taxes, their housing needs and lack of personal freedoms" (NYPOST). Reminiscent of the French Revolution? It's the 2014 version, except a bit more scandal is surrounding France's leader with his 7 year relationship breakup. The drama.

Hollande's approval rating is ONLY 30%. Let's see if his visit to the Bay Area soon will help bring tech jobs (or whatever he's looking for) to France.

http://nypost.com/2014/01/26/thousands-protest-against-french-president-hollande/

BBC gives us a glimpse into what the British royals are living in:

The most beloved and most well known location is Buckingham Palace. The Queen lives here. That's all anyone really needs to know. British people love the queen.

Buckingham Palace Exterior

Buckingham Palace Interior

Kensington Place, in London, was purchased in 1889 for $33,058 (value before inflation) by Mary II and William III. Princess Catherine, Prince Harry, and Prince William all currently live here.

Kensington Place Exterior

Kensington Place Interior

Queen Victoria used to frequent the Goring Hotel for afternoon tea, which is very close to Buckingham Palace. She, along with King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II, came here to celebrate the end of World War II.

The Goring Hotel Exterior

In contrast to the glamorous parts of royal London is the East End of London. In the 19th century, it became the East End when London became overcrowded and the East End became concentrated with poor people and immigrants. By the end of the century, the area was riddle with disease, crime, and poverty. It has developed more over the last few centuries, but it's still one of the poorest parts of Britain. The class system separation is too apparent.