This book provides a clear and up-to-date guide to French history from the early middle ages to the present--from Charlemagne to Chirac. Among the book's central themes are the relationship between state and society, the impact of war and the use of political power. Substantially re-written to take account of recent research, this second edition includes a new chapter on contemporary France; a society and political system in crisis as a result of globalization, international terrorism, racial tension and a loss of confidence in political leaders.