Northern Catalonia is only a part of a larger body sometimes referred to as Països Catalans (Catalan Countries). Though it is now part of the French state, its history cannot be separated from the rest of the Catalan-speaking territories. This study will focus on the situation of Catalan in Northern Catalonia, contrasting the data with the Principality of Catalonia and other neighboring regions. Its history, the place of Catalan within Romance languages and its status will also be reviewed before drawing a final conclusion.