This book is an introduction to contemporary France, providing systematic coverage of culture, society, economy, and politics set in a historical and geographical context. A central theme is the relationship between popular images of France flowing from its cultural, culinary, and linguistic influence, its appeal as a tourist destination, and the influence of its republican and revolutionary heritage, and the often contradictory realities of French society facing up to globalization, Europeanization and the other challenges of the 21st century. The book deals with the issue of whether or not France has come to terms with its tumultous past, its wars, civil strife and rapid modernization following the devastation of World War II. It also examines key aspects of French political culture and looks at how the core republican principles of libery, equality and fraternity are being interpreted and implemented today.