Why do the Brits drive on the left side of the road while the French drive on the right?

The reason why Brits drive on the left side of the road while the French (and most other countries) drive on the right side of the road dates back to the Middle Ages. In the past, most people traveled on horseback, and passing oncoming traffic was easier when done on the left side of the road. The left side of the road also allowed travelers to keep their right hand (the sword hand) free for defense against potential attackers.

As time passed, wagons and carriages became more common modes of transportation, and the practice of driving on the left side of the road continued. When cars were invented, the UK and its colonies, including India, Australia, and New Zealand, continued to drive on the left. The US and many other countries adopted the right-hand rule, which was also supported by the fact that most cars were left-hand drive, making it easier for drivers to see oncoming traffic when passing.

In France, the right-hand rule was adopted during the French Revolution in 1794. It was believed that driving on the right side of the road represented a break from the aristocracy, as the nobility had traditionally driven on the left.

The practice of driving on the left side of the road dates back to the Middle Ages. At that time, most people were right-handed, and it was considered safer to walk on the left side of the road so that they could keep their right hand free to draw their sword if they were attacked. This practice was also adopted for horse-drawn carriages, as the driver sat on the left side of the carriage and needed to be able to use their right hand to control the horses.

In the 18th century, the British government began to encourage people to drive on the left side of the road, and in 1835 it passed a law making it mandatory. This was done in order to reduce the number of accidents, as it was thought that driving on the left side of the road was safer.

The French, on the other hand, have always driven on the right side of the road. This is believed to be due to the fact that the Roman Empire, which conquered France in the 1st century AD, drove on the right side of the road. The practice of driving on the right side of the road was then adopted by the French monarchy and continued after the French Revolution.

In the 20th century, there was a trend towards countries adopting the right-hand traffic system. This was due to the fact that it is considered to be safer, as it allows drivers to have a better view of oncoming traffic. However, there are still a number of countries that drive on the left side of the road, including the United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia.