The history of France: Essential Background for Expats

France has evolved from Celtic Gaul through Roman rule, medieval kingdoms, and revolutionary change to become one of Europe's leading powers. Understanding this rich history helps expats appreciate the culture, politics, and national identity that shape French society today.

Ancient and Medieval France

The region known as France has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with cave paintings at Lascaux dating back over 17,000 years. The area was home to Celtic Gauls before Roman conquest in the first century BC. Roman rule brought Latin language and culture, which would eventually evolve into French.

After the fall of Rome, the Frankish kingdom emerged under Clovis I in the 5th century. The Carolingian dynasty, most famously under Charlemagne, expanded Frankish territory across much of Western Europe. The Treaty of Verdun in 843 divided the Carolingian Empire, creating the foundations of what would become France.

The Kingdom of France

Medieval France saw the rise of powerful monarchs and the development of distinctive French culture. The Capetian dynasty ruled for over 300 years, gradually consolidating royal power. The Hundred Years' War with England (1337-1453) shaped French national identity, with figures like Joan of Arc becoming symbols of French resistance.

The Renaissance brought cultural flourishing, while the Wars of Religion between Catholics and Protestants devastated the country in the 16th century. The Bourbon dynasty, beginning with Henry IV, eventually brought stability and transformed France into Europe's dominant power under Louis XIV, the Sun King.

Revolution and Empire

The French Revolution of 1789 fundamentally transformed France and influenced the entire world. The overthrow of the monarchy, the Declaration of the Rights of Man, and the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity became cornerstones of modern democratic thought.

Napoleon Bonaparte's rise from revolutionary general to Emperor saw France dominate Europe before his eventual defeat. The 19th century brought multiple changes in government, from restoration of the monarchy to the Second Empire under Napoleon III, before the establishment of the Third Republic in 1870.

Modern France

France was a founding member of NATO in 1949. However, in 1966, President Charles de Gaulle withdrew French forces from NATO's integrated military command, feeling that the UK and US wielded too much influence. This led to NATO headquarters moving from Paris to Brussels. France eventually rejoined NATO's integrated military command structure in 2009.

Since 1958, France has operated under the Fifth Republic, a hybrid presidential-parliamentary government designed by Charles de Gaulle. This system has proven more stable than earlier parliamentary administrations. In recent decades, France's reconciliation and cooperation with Germany has been central to European integration. Expats can learn more about living in modern France through resources on expatslist.org.

France and European Integration

France was a founding member of the European Economic Community in 1957, which later became the European Union. The country participated in the introduction of the euro starting in 1999, replacing the French Franc.

France is also a member of the Schengen Area, which eliminated border controls between member countries. This makes travel throughout much of Europe seamless for French residents and visitors alike.

France Today

Modern France remains a global power, known for its cultural influence, advanced economy, and commitment to European cooperation. The country continues to play a leading role in international affairs while maintaining its distinctive culture and way of life that attracts millions of visitors and expats each year.

For expats, understanding this rich historical context helps explain everything from French bureaucracy to national holidays and the importance of concepts like laicite (secularism) in French public life. Explore more insights about French culture on our expat blog.