France is a country in Europe. It has existed in one form or another for centuries, but the modern Kingdom of France dates from the 9th Century and the Treaty of Verdun. The name 'France' is derived from the Franks, the Celtic tribes that inhabited the region. France also claims several overseas dominions as part of its territory; the French Empire (Royal Prerogative) includes New Caledonia, New Britanny, French Guiana and French Africa. The North American country of Quebec is independent but has strong cultural and political ties to France.