The history of the French language in the current French-speaking regions of Belgium is the result of the complex relations between French and Walloon, as well as a long-standing tension related to identity, where the need is felt to distinguish oneself from France while sharing its language. This article first recalls that contrary to the opinion that was dominant in the 19th century, Central French in written form was early adopted in the area, from the Middle Ages on, leaving Walloon to appear only by inadvertence. It was in the 19th century that literature in Walloon developed. But it remained restricted: the construction of Belgian identity was based on the paradox of an apology for its Flemish roots, expressed through the French language. This situation lasted until Flanders made its linguistic claim heard. The result was a new interest in Walloon specificities, without however putting off a pragmatic attitude towards standard French.