No, French fries are not originally from France. Despite their name, the origins of French fries can be traced to Belgium. The story goes that in the late 17th century, villagers in the Meuse Valley would fry small fish as a winter food source. However, when the river froze, they began frying potatoes instead. It is believed that the term "French fries" originated during World War I when American soldiers stationed in Belgium tasted these fried potatoes. Due to French being the official language of the Belgian army, soldiers called fried potatoes "French fries". Over time, the name stuck, leading to the widespread misconception that French fries are French in origin.