After some time, the French replaced their colonial policy of assimilation with that of

The French colonial policy of assimilation aimed at making their colonies an integral part of France by imposing French culture, language, and values on the colonies. However, this policy was met with resistance from the colonized people who sought to maintain their own culture and identity. As a result, the French later replaced their policy of assimilation with the policy of association, which recognized the cultural and social differences of the colonized people and allowed for a more flexible relationship between the colonizer and the colonized. Under this policy, the French allowed for the preservation of local cultures and traditions while still maintaining control over the colonies. Therefore, the answer is "Association".