The Grimaldi family has ruled Monaco since the mid 1200's, and since they claimed power of this magnificent country Monaco has been able to prosper with regards to having major ports for trading, and an important naval base for the European army.

During the French Revolution in the 1600's, the Royal Family of Monaco was imprisoned for a short period of time. However, once they were given freedom again the Grimaldis gave one half of Monaco's land to France in exchange for money and independence. The Royal Family soon decided that something must be done in order to prevent the economy from collapsing. In 1863 they decided that since they had no natural resources to use, they would use tourism and gambling as a large part of the economy, and since that day it has remained this way. The Grimaldis created a company called Societe des Bains de Mer which still remains prosperous even today, controlling many aspects of Monaco's economy.

In 1949, Prince Rainier III took throne of Monaco, and soon made Monaco a worldwide attraction due to his marriage with US actress Grace Kelly. Ever since then it has been extremely well known for its casinos, Grand Prix Races, and top of the line lifestyles. In 1918, Monaco signed a treaty with French which stated that France would defend Monaco if necessary, because Monaco's population was far too small to be able to have it's own quality defense system.

The Late Prince Rainier and the Late Grace Kelly