Having produced several works devoted to the history of France, Henri Martin began the history of “ancient and modern France”, from its origins until the 19^th century. He wanted his book to appeal to all French citizens and therefore focused only on the most emblematic figures who, he believed, “exerted a real influence on the destiny of France”.
Henri Martin, whose portrait we can see on the left-hand page, became quite well-known for his contribution to shaping the history of the Gallic peoples.