What Asian countries were settled by the French?

The French colonized several Asian countries, primarily in Southeast Asia and in the Indian subcontinent. Here's a breakdown:

Southeast Asia

* Vietnam: French colonization began in the 17th century and lasted until 1954, with a significant impact on Vietnamese culture, language, and political structure.

* Cambodia: French influence started in the 19th century and lasted until 1953, leading to significant changes in the country's infrastructure and economy.

* Laos: French colonization began in the 19th century and ended in 1954, leaving a mark on Laos's administrative system and infrastructure.

Indian Subcontinent

* Pondicherry (Puducherry): France established settlements in various parts of India, including Pondicherry, which was ruled by the French until 1954.

Other Asian Countries:

* China: France had a small presence in Shanghai in the 19th century, primarily for commercial purposes.

It's important to remember that the term "settled" can be interpreted in different ways. While France did not establish permanent settlements in most of these countries, they had a significant influence on their development and culture.