ELI5 French Fries - were they really not invented in France?

From ELI5 Explain Like I'm 5: Bite sized answers to stuff you should know about - in a mini podcast ELI5 Explain Like I'm Five Podcast

Why are they called chips in England and fries in the US? If they weren't invented in France, where did they come from? What is it about french fries in particular that make them nearly impossible to taste good once reheated in the microwave, unlike a pizza? Is it true that Thomas Jefferson brought French Fries to the United States? ... We explain like i'm five! Thank you to the r/explainlikeimfive community as always and in particular the following users whose questions and comments formed the basis of this discussion: taco_bell_ceo, pfeifits, slash178 & lisabauer58. To the ELI5 community that has supported us so far, thanks for all your feedback and comments. Send us an e-mail: [email protected]