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IN BRIEF
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Did you know that the
French passport
has not always been this attractive shade
bordeaux
that we know today? Before the 1980s, it leaned more towards blue! It was with the rise of the
European Union
, when it had only nine members, that this emblematic color was adopted. But why this precise color? Let’s dive together into the
secrets
and the
mysteries
surrounding this hue that proudly dresses our travel documents.
The mysteries of the French passport: why the bordeaux color?
You’ve probably asked yourself why the French passport is adorned with an elegant bordeaux, a color omnipresent in travel documents issued by European countries. But this is not just an aesthetic choice! Let’s delve together into the intricacies of the history and meanings behind this shade.
A colorful history
The French passport has not always displayed its signature bordeaux. Is it true that before the 1980s, its cover was actually blue? At that time, the colors of passports varied greatly from one country to another. It was in 1975, with the emergence of the European Union, that nine countries decided to harmonize their covers. This movement led to the creation of a common visual identity, symbolized by the adoption of the famous bordeaux.
A color symbol of solidarity
The choice of bordeaux for the French passport is not trivial. As with most member countries of the European Union, this shade represents a symbol of solidarity and unity. While bright red is the shade chosen by other nations, like Switzerland, bordeaux has become the blue-white-red of the EU. This color connects European countries, showing that they are moving forward together towards a common future.
Color differences around the world
In the vast world, passports do not just come in two or three colors. Indeed, there are officially four colors: blue, red, green, and black. Bordeaux, on the other hand, is the color found among almost all EU members, except for Croatia which opted for a dignitary dark blue. This shows how even a simple color choice can say a lot about a country, its values, and its commitment to European unity.
Color as a reflection of national identity
Beyond European belonging, the color of the passport can also reveal certain cultural, historical, and political dimensions of a country. Countries often choose shades that evoke their history or symbolic elements. The influence of the French Revolution, for example, is palpable in this bordeaux hue, which aims to be both a nod to national heritage while looking towards the future.
An exclusive touch for diplomats
Ironically, while the basic French passport proudly sports its bordeaux, diplomatic passports adopt a midnight blue shade. A small reminder that not all passport holders are equal, and that color can have implications not only symbolic but also practical on the international stage. One more step into the mysteries surrounding these precious passes!
What the color of your passport really hides
Ultimately, the bordeaux of our passport is much more than just a color. It embodies a rich history, a commitment to the European Union, and a reminder of our national heritage. So, when you present this small document during your next adventures, you will know that it carries with it a world of meanings!
And if you want to further explore your passion for travel, why not consider gastronomic tours or contemplating a road trip across France? Each destination has its own mysteries and stories to tell, just like our dear bordeaux passport!
