What does coalition mean in this sentence: france was ruled by a series of coalition governments. (simple terms )

Explanation:

If we look to the Oxford English Dictionary (a primary authority among dictionaries), "coalition" is defined as "a temporary alliance for combined action, especially of political parties forming a government."  In many political systems, in order to form a majority government, multiple political parties must come together in a coalition.  The United States two-party system is not like the way many governments function elsewhere in the world.  Often there are multiple political parties, so a coalition of such political groups must be formed in order to have a majority of votes in legislative action.