The "West Franks" refers to a group of Frankish tribes that settled in what is now modern-day France during the early Middle Ages. They were part of the larger Frankish kingdom, which emerged after the fall of the Roman Empire. The West Franks played a crucial role in the formation of the Carolingian Empire under leaders like Charlemagne. The West Franks were known for their feudal system, which structured society around land ownership and loyalty. This system laid the groundwork for the development of medieval European kingdoms. Over time, the West Franks evolved into the Kingdom of France, influencing the region's culture, language, and politics.