This article discusses the status of research in climate history in Europe and more particularly in France. This field of historical research, highly ignored in France since the pioneer works of Emmanuel Le Roy Ladurie, and an overview of its exceptional development in Europe are discussed in detail. Special attention is given to textual and legal archives subjected to critical interpretation. The methods and significant results in the history of climate research are presented. The main aspects are: data, methods, definitions, synoptic interpretation of past climates, natural disasters, and the vulnerability of societies to climate as well as images and social representations of past weather and climate. Research perspectives for a future French school and for decision-makers, as well as the interdisciplinary stakes which emanate therefrom are also formulated.