Aisne

Aisne, a department in the north of France, comprising parts of Picardy, Brie, and the Isle of France. Area, 2839 sq. m. Hilly in the south, level in the north, it belongs to the basin of the Seine, and is watered by the rivers Aisne, Marne, and Oise, and by other navigable streams and canals. The soil is fertile; the chief products being grain, hay, wine, and cider. It is the seat of considerable woollen and other manufactures. Laon is the capital. Pop. (1886) 555,925; (1891) 545,493.