Modern French politics remain characterized by a Left/Right division of the country even though the border between the two has been recently blurred. In the current Fifth Republic, begun by Charles de Gaulle, enormous executive power is given to the President, who is elected for seven years. His government is composed of a Council of Ministers, led by a 
A Profile of France
Modern Life
Since the 1950′s, French people have enjoyed the benefits of mass culture and consumerism. As the fourth economic power, France’s standard of living and level of comsumption are very similar to those in the USA. 
Urban life in a city such as Paris has become almost the same as in any other megapolis in the world.
France in Figures
