So why all the French hate?

EXPLAIN!!!

Or is it just because the french were such an ass for not going to war with US?

or you are reduced to skepticism

I prefer to be the skeptic. Take a look at the two primary parties in the United States. They certainly don't behave according to the ideals they claim to hold. Parties say what they know people want to hear. Sometimes they carry through, but only when it's in their interest.

Having said that, I'm now out of my realm of experience. I've been too busy watching the US and the Middle East, so what France is doing at the moment is beyond me.