The signing of the Entente Cordiale in 1904 marked a significant change in the diplomatic landscape of Europe. For centuries, France and the United Kingdom had been historical rivals, entangled in numerous conflicts ranging from the Hundred Years' War to the Napoleonic Wars. However, by the turn of the 20th century, the rise of new powers in Europe, particularly Germany, necessitated a reevaluation of existing alliances. The Entente sought to formalize a peaceful resolution to their differences, specifically addressing territorial disputes in Africa and Asia. The negotiations for this agreement began in the late 1890s and culminated in a treaty that not only focused on colonial interests but also emphasized cooperation in combating German threats. The signing took place on April 8, 1904, in Paris, with Theodore Delcasse representing France and Sir Julian Paunceforte representing the UK.

The agreement was comprehensive, addressing numerous regional disputes, and helped to align the interests of both nations, particularly in North Africa. Importantly, it did not delineate a formal military alliance, leaving some ambiguity in its implications. The Entente Cordiale facilitated closer cooperation between the two nations while still allowing each to maintain its independent foreign policy. In the following years, this relationship proved crucial during the First World War, where the two powers would unite against a common enemy. Moreover, the Entente Cordiale played a pivotal role in the emergence of the Triple Entente, which included Russia, fundamentally shifting the balance of power in Europe and paving the way for future alliances.