Jules Ferry quotes:

In opening China, the English have secured their presence in East Asia. If we don't commit more resources to get into Southeast Asia now, they or Germany, or even little Belgium might find it ripe for the taking.

After our humiliating loss of Alsace-Lorraine, France needs a victory to restore pride in the nation.

I repeat that superior races have a right [to establish colonies], because they have a duty. They have the duty to civilize inferior races.

Religion has always been the picklock of imperialism. Let them try to convert the heathens, and when they fail, we shall send in the French Navy to protect them and our political and commercial interests.