The Belle Époque or Beautiful Age was a golden period in French history. It was a time of great scientific advancement and vibrant street life. The middle and upper classes prospered and peace prevailed during this era. The Belle Époque began in 1871 and ended in 1914 with the outbreak of World War I. What does the Belle Époque have to do with Argentina? Argentina thrived in this period too. The country went from a remote, wild frontier to a prosperous state centered on Buenos Aires. The tango was born in the Belle Époque. What's more, Argentine aristocracy looked to Paris during this era and erected many buildings in its style.