This text is a concise publication on France the land its people and its great contribution to world culture. It contains a chronological account of the most important events which have shaped France and the French society in the course of centuries and a compact overview of the countrys arts and letters. It is a guide to places of interest historic sites famous monuments and art treasures and provides essential information for all those interested in France. It is suitable for use as a college manual of French Civilization a companion to French studies and a travel companion to sophisticated visitors of France. It is the first history of French civilization in English an invaluable reference tool for scholars and a must for libraries.