The Franks were a group of Germanic peoples whose name was first mentioned in 3rd-century Roman sources, and associated with tribes between the Lower Rhine and the Ems River, on the edge of the Roman Empire.

What does the name Frankish mean?

The name Frankish comes from the ancient Anglo-Saxon culture of Britain. It was a name for a person who was referred to as being free or generous.

Why are the French called Franks?

The origin of the name "Franks" is debated, as some historians have claimed a link with the English word "frank" meaning "truthful", while others reject this claim, citing the more probable origin as "franca" or "frakka", the Germanic/Norse word for the javelin the Franks favored in battle.