The shift in public opinion overturns centuries of established thought about marriage influenced by culture and religion.

CNN: How gay rights went mainstream

Opinion: Why the fuss about gay marriage?

CNN: French lawmakers approve same-sex marriage bill

Opinion polls suggest that around 55-60% of French people support gay marriage, though only about 50% approve of gay adoption.

BBC: France's parliament approve gay marriage article

Nonetheless, opinion polls suggest that around 55-60% of French people support gay marriage, though only about 50% approve of gay adoption.

BBC: France's parliament begins long debate on gay marriage

The leader of the Church of England, Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams, has said the law should not be used as a tool to bring about such social changes such as gay marriage, and may turn out to be ahead of majority opinion.

BBC: Gay marriage: Roman Catholic archbishops step up fight