More than 10,000 French words are part of the English vocabulary, thanks to the Norman Conquest. French is spoken nearby in the Caribbean, Louisiana, New England, and Quebec as well as on all other continents. Germany is the leading economic power in Europe and the world's largest exporter and main trade partner for the U.S. and Canada.
Japan is a major international force in the world today.
Japan plays a stratgic role in the national defense of the U.S. and serves as a gateway to the rest of Asia. Japanese culture has had a major impact on American culture, from the strengths of its educational system to the martial arts, ikebana , and landscaping. Studying the language and culture of people who lived 2000 years ago gives a valuable perspective on the roots of Western Civilization. Latin is the basis for terms used in government, law, medicine, and science. Latin has greatly influenced music, art and literature.