Final answer:
Surrounding France's borders with powerful countries was important to enhance national security, deter aggression, and maintain a balance of power in Europe.
Step-by-step explanation:
It was important to surround France's borders with powerful countries to prevent external attacks and maintain a balance of power in Europe. By having strong countries as neighbors, France could deter potential aggressors and increase its security.
Additionally, surrounding France's borders with powerful countries also acted as a defensive strategy by creating a buffer zone and forcing any potential invader to face multiple and well-prepared armies.
For example, during World War II, the French constructed the Maginot Line along the German-French border to defend against a possible German invasion. However, the Germans bypassed this formidable defense by attacking Belgium and Luxembourg, highlighting the importance of having allies and strong countries on the border to assist in the defense.
Similarly, the countries surrounding France acted as a deterrent for Napoleon during his campaigns, limiting his expansion and influence.
Overall, surrounding France's borders with powerful countries was a strategic measure to ensure national security, deter aggression, and maintain a balance of power in Europe.