Poitous

Poitous is a historical demonym used to refer to people associated with Poitou, a traditional region in western France. In modern usage the term Poitou is uncommon for describing residents; the standard demonyms are Poitevin (male) and Poitevine (female), with Poitevins used for mixed groups. The form Poitous appears in older English-language texts and some regional or literary writings.

Geographically, Poitou lay along the Atlantic coast and centered on Poitiers, the historic capital. In contemporary administration, Poitou is part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and roughly corresponds to the former Poitou-Charentes area, encompassing the departments of Charente, Charente-Maritime, Deux-Sèvres, and Vienne. The region features diverse landscapes, including the Marais Poitevin, a vast marshland network often called the Green Venice.

Language and culture in the Poitou area historically included Poitevin and Saintongeais, varieties of the Oïl language group, though these dialects are increasingly endangered. Cultural heritage is reflected in medieval towns around Poitiers, Romanesque architecture, and regional products such as Cognac from Charente. The area is also known for its agricultural traditions, Atlantic seafood, and wine production within the historic borders.

History, governance, and identity: Poitou developed as a medieval duchy and a crossroads of Frankish and Angevin spheres. Poitiers gained prominence in the early medieval period, and the region is associated with events such as the Battle of Tours in 732. Over the centuries it was integrated into the Kingdom of France and formed part of the Poitou Province until the French Revolution. In modern times, Poitou forms part of the broader Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.