When and where was Free France established?

Free France was established in London in June 1940, following the Fall of France to Nazi Germany.

Free France was led by General Charles de Gaulle.

What was the primary goal of Free France?

The primary goal of Free France was to continue the fight against Axis forces and to serve as a rallying point for French resistance both within occupied France and in the French colonial empire.

What was the significance of de Gaulle's Appeal of 18 June?

General Charles de Gaulle's Appeal of 18 June, broadcast via BBC radio, urged French soldiers, sailors, and airmen to refuse the armistice, continue fighting the Nazis, and join the Free French Forces. It became a foundational statement of French resistance.

What was Vichy France?

Vichy France was a German puppet state established in southern France after the Fall of France, led by Marshal Philippe Pétain, which negotiated an armistice with Nazi Germany.

What was the legal basis for de Gaulle's government-in-exile?

De Gaulle argued that the armistice signed by the Vichy government was illegal and treasonous, as the French government had fallen under enemy control and ceased to function. He considered himself the last remaining member of the legitimate Reynaud government.

How did Free France organize its administration in the early stages?

Initially, Free France established the Empire Defense Council in October 1940, later evolving into the French National Committee (CNF), to govern French territories that had heeded de Gaulle's call.

What was the initial response of French colonies to de Gaulle's appeal?

Initially, most French colonial territories rejected de Gaulle's appeal and reaffirmed their loyalty to Marshal Pétain and the Vichy government, with only a few exceptions like French possessions in the Pacific, India, and Equatorial Africa.

How did Free France gain control over more Vichy possessions?

Free France progressively gained control over Vichy possessions, often with the decisive military intervention of the Allies, securing the majority of colonies by November 1942.

What role did the Free French Forces play in Allied campaigns?

The Free French Forces participated in almost every major Allied campaign, serving in North Africa, Italy, the liberation of France, and even in the Pacific and on the Eastern Front.

What was the Free French Navy (FNFL) and its role?

The Free French Naval Forces (FNFL) operated as an auxiliary force to the Royal Navy and Royal Canadian Navy, playing a role in various campaigns, including Operation Torch, escorting convoys, and supporting the French Resistance.

What was the significance of the Cross of Lorraine for Free France?

The Cross of Lorraine was adopted as a symbol of Free France, suggested by Thierry d'Argenlieu. It symbolized perseverance, referencing Joan of Arc and the annexed region of Alsace-Lorraine, and served as a counter-symbol to Nazism.

What happened to the French Navy after the Fall of France?

Following the Fall of France, the British feared the French fleet falling into Axis hands. This led to the ultimatum and subsequent attack on French ships at Mers el-Kébir, causing bitterness and discouraging some French sailors from joining the Free French forces.

Which French ships or sailors remained loyal to the Allied cause?

Despite the events at Mers-el-Kébir, some French warships and sailors, such as the crew of the submarine *Rubis*, the destroyer *Le Triomphant*, and the submarine *Surcouf*, remained on the Allied side or later joined the FNFL.

How did Free France engage in the African campaign?

Free French forces fought in North Africa and East Africa, notably participating in the Battle of Bir Hakeim, the Tunisian campaign, and capturing Italian forts in the oasis of Kufra, distinguishing themselves in harsh desert conditions.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Dakar (Operation Menace)?

The Battle of Dakar in September 1940 was an unsuccessful attempt by an Anglo-French naval force to capture the strategic port of Dakar in French West Africa. The local Vichy authorities resisted effectively, leading to a humiliating withdrawal by the Allies.

What was the significance of the Battle of Bir Hakeim?

The Battle of Bir Hakeim in June 1942 saw Free French forces under General Marie Pierre Koenig resist the Afrika Korps. Their tenacious defense demonstrated the FFF's capability as a fighting force and impressed even Axis commanders.

What was Operation Torch?

Operation Torch, launched in November 1942, was an Allied invasion of Vichy-controlled French North Africa, involving Anglo-American forces aiming to clear Axis troops from the region and prepare for the invasion of Italy.

What was the role of Henri Giraud in Free France?

Henri Giraud, a French general who escaped German captivity, negotiated with the Americans for leadership in the North African invasion and became the de facto successor to Admiral Darlan, eventually becoming co-president of the French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) with de Gaulle.

What was the Normandie-Niemen Regiment?

The Normandie-Niemen Regiment was a fighter regiment of the Free French Air Force that served on the Eastern Front with the Soviet 1st Air Army. It was notable for being the only Western Allied air combat unit to participate on the Eastern Front until the end of the war.

What was the French Expeditionary Corps in Italy?

The French Expeditionary Corps in Italy was a force of 70,000 to 130,000 Free French soldiers who fought on the Allied side during the Italian campaign from 1943 to 1944, distinguishing themselves at Monte Cassino.

What were the 'Marocchinate' incidents?

The 'Marocchinate' refers to wartime atrocities, including mass rape and murder of Italian civilians, committed by Moroccan Goumiers of the French Expeditionary Corps during the Italian campaign, sometimes with the encouragement or indifference of French officers.

How did Free France contribute to the Liberation of France?

Free French forces, including the French Liberation Army, participated significantly in the Normandy landings, the invasion of southern France (Operation Dragoon), and the subsequent advance through France, ultimately leading to the liberation of Paris.

What was the significance of the Provisional Government of the French Republic (GPRF)?

The GPRF was officially created in June 1944, succeeding the CFLN, and marked the re-establishment of France as a republic. Its main purposes were to handle the aftermath of the occupation, continue the war effort, and preserve French sovereignty.

What was the composition of the Free French forces in terms of personnel?

The Free French forces were composed of various groups, including metropolitan French soldiers, colonial troops (particularly from sub-Saharan Africa and North Africa), volunteers from the Foreign Legion, Spanish Republicans, and other foreign nationals.

What role did colonial troops play in the Free French forces?

Colonial troops, especially from sub-Saharan Africa and North Africa, formed a significant portion of the Free French forces, making up a substantial percentage of the army and participating in key campaigns like Bir Hakeim and the Italian campaign.

What was the status of French Indochina during World War II?

French Indochina was invaded by Japan in September 1940 and remained under nominal Vichy control for most of the war, until the Japanese launched a coup in March 1945 and took full control.

What was the outcome of the French resistance efforts in Saint Pierre and Miquelon?

In December 1941, Rear Admiral Emile Muselier and FNFL forces secured Saint Pierre and Miquelon for Free France, marking the first French possession in the Americas to join the Allies, though it caused a diplomatic incident with the United States.

What was the legal definition of 'Free French' issued by the French government?

According to a ministerial instruction from July 1953, only those who served with the Allies after the Franco-German armistice in 1940 and before August 1, 1943, could correctly be called 'Free French'.

What was the role of Jean Moulin in the French Resistance?

Jean Moulin was sent back to France by de Gaulle to coordinate the fragmented Resistance groups under his leadership and was instrumental in forming the National Council of the Resistance (CNR).

What was the significance of the GPRF's move to Paris after its liberation?

After the liberation of Paris in August 1944, the GPRF moved back to the capital, establishing a government of national unanimity that included various political factions and aimed to secure France's status as a major power and a permanent UNSC seat.

What were some of the key reforms enacted by the GPRF?

The GPRF enacted significant reforms, including granting women the right to vote, founding the École nationale d'administration (ENA), and laying the groundwork for social security in France.

What was the Free French forces' contribution to the Allied advance into Germany?

By the end of the war, the Free French forces, numbering over 1.3 million, formed the fourth-largest Allied army in Europe. They participated in the advance through France and the invasion of Germany, reaching the Rhine and the Danube.

What was the Oath of Kufra?

The Oath of Kufra was a pledge made by General Leclerc's unit in February 1941 after capturing the Italian fort at Kufra, vowing not to stop fighting until French soil was liberated. This pledge was fulfilled when the 2nd Armored Division liberated Strasbourg in November 1944.

What was the impact of the 'Marocchinate' incidents on French troops' reputation?

The 'Marocchinate' incidents, involving widespread violence by Moroccan Goumiers against Italian civilians, cast a shadow on the reputation of French troops, although Marshal de Lattre de Tassigny claimed these were isolated events exploited by German propaganda.

How did the Free French forces contribute to the Allied victory in the Battle of the Atlantic?

The Free French Naval Forces (FNFL) played a role in the Battle of the Atlantic by escorting convoys and operating alongside the Royal Navy and Royal Canadian Navy, with ships like the corvette *Roselys* and the submarine *Rubis* being notable.

What was the role of the French Forces of the Interior (FFI)?

The FFI, also known as the Resistance, conducted sabotage, intelligence gathering, and guerrilla warfare behind German lines, significantly contributing to the Allied advance during the liberation of France.

What was the significance of the French occupation zones in Germany after the war?

The French occupation zones in Germany, Austria, and Berlin cemented France's status as a victor nation and recognized its strategic importance in the post-war geopolitical landscape, particularly in containing Soviet influence.

What was the legacy of de Gaulle's Appeal of 18 June?

The Appeal of 18 June remains one of the most famous speeches in French history, symbolizing national honor and the spirit of resistance against occupation.

How did the Free French forces' composition reflect the diversity of the French empire?

The Free French forces included soldiers from metropolitan France, various African colonies (sub-Saharan and North Africa), Pacific island volunteers, and foreign nationals, highlighting the diverse nature of the French colonial empire's contribution to the war effort.

What was the fate of the Vichy government in exile after the liberation of France?

Following the liberation of France, some Vichy loyalists, including Pierre Laval and Marshal Pétain, established a government in exile in Sigmaringen, Germany. Laval was executed for treason, and Pétain's sentence was commuted to life imprisonment.

What was the primary objective of Operation Dragoon?

Operation Dragoon, the Allied invasion of southern France in August 1944, aimed to secure vital supply lines by capturing the ports of Toulon and Marseille, thereby facilitating the Allied advance.

How did the Free French forces contribute to the Allied victory in the Battle of the Bulge?

While the text doesn't explicitly detail Free French participation in the Battle of the Bulge, it mentions their involvement in stopping Operation Nordwind, the last major German offensive on the Western Front in January 1945, and their actions in Alsace-Lorraine and the Colmar Pocket.

What was the role of the French 2nd Armored Division (2e DB) in the liberation of France?

The French 2nd Armored Division, led by General Leclerc, played a crucial role in the liberation of France, landing at Utah Beach during the Normandy invasion, leading the drive towards Paris, and ultimately liberating Strasbourg, fulfilling the Oath of Kufra.

What was the significance of the French gaining an occupation zone in Germany?

The French occupation zone in Germany was a key outcome of France's participation in World War II, recognizing its role as a major Allied power and its strategic importance in the post-war division of Europe.

What was the approximate number of Free French forces by the end of the war in Europe?

By May 1945, the Free French forces comprised approximately 1,300,000 personnel, organized into around forty divisions, making it the fourth-largest Allied army in Europe.

What was the primary goal of the French National Committee (CNF)?

The French National Committee (CNF), established in September 1941, aimed to organize and administer French territories under Free French rule and served as an alternative provisional French government.

What was the impact of the Allied landings in Provence (Operation Dragoon)?

The Provence landings, conducted by the French 2nd Corps and other Allied forces, led to the capture of Toulon and Marseille, securing vital supply lines and contributing to the rapid German retreat along the Rhône valley.

What was the Free French Forces' involvement in the East African Campaign?

In 1941, Free French Forces fought alongside British Empire troops against the Italians in Italian East Africa during the East African Campaign, participating in battles like the capture of Kufra.

What was the primary objective of the French National Committee of Liberation (CFLN)?

The CFLN, formed in June 1943, aimed to unify territories controlled by Free France and Vichy defectors, acting as the provisional government to prepare for future operations against Italy and the German Atlantic wall.

Free France Wiki: The Free French: A Beacon of Resistance

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Defining Free France

A Government in Exile

Free France (France libre) emerged as the resistance government claiming legitimacy for France following the collapse of the Third Republic during World War II. Established in London in June 1940 under the leadership of General Charles de Gaulle, it operated as a government-in-exile after the Fall of France to Nazi Germany. Free France aligned with the Allied nations, actively engaging Axis forces through the Free French Forces (Forces françaises libres).

Unifying Resistance

While Marshal Philippe Pétain negotiated an armistice and established the German puppet state of Vichy France, de Gaulle, opposing this capitulation, broadcast the Appeal of 18 June from Britain. This appeal urged French citizens and soldiers to continue the fight against the Nazis and join the Free French Forces. The movement also supported the French Resistance within occupied France, known as the French Forces of the Interior, and secured strategic footholds in French colonies across Africa.

Evolving Structure

Initially a government-in-exile, Free France evolved. The Empire Defense Council was formed in October 1940, later becoming the French National Committee (CNF). In July 1942, the movement was officially renamed Fighting France (France combattante). Following the Allied reconquest of North Africa, the French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) was established in Algiers, unifying various French forces and territories under a provisional government, ultimately paving the way for the Provisional Government of the French Republic (GPRF).

Historical Trajectory

The Crucial Junctures

The genesis of Free France was deeply intertwined with the rapid German advance in May-June 1940. Following the Dunkirk evacuation and the subsequent French government's decision to seek an armistice, General Charles de Gaulle, appointed Under Secretary of State for Defence, refused to accept the defeat. His Appeal of 18 June from London marked the formal beginning of Free France, rallying those who refused to submit to Nazi occupation.

Colonial Allegiances

Initially, most French colonial territories remained loyal to the Vichy regime. However, through a combination of diplomatic efforts and, in some cases, Allied military intervention, Free France gradually gained control over key colonies. French Equatorial Africa, including Chad and Gabon, rallied to de Gaulle by August 1940, providing vital manpower and resources. The strategic port of Dakar and French West Africa remained under Vichy control until the Allied landings in North Africa in November 1942.

Consolidation and Recognition

The formation of the French National Committee (CNF) in September 1941 and the subsequent renaming to Fighting France in July 1942 signified a growing organizational strength. The Allied landings in North Africa (Operation Torch) in November 1942 proved a critical turning point, leading to the eventual unification of French forces under the French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) in June 1943. This committee, co-chaired by de Gaulle and Henri Giraud, became the provisional government, preparing for the liberation of metropolitan France.

The Free French Forces

Composition and Diversity

The Free French Forces (FFF) were a diverse coalition, drawing personnel from metropolitan France, the French colonial empire, and foreign volunteers. By the time of the Normandy landings in 1944, the FFF numbered approximately 500,000. These forces included soldiers from sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, the Levant, Pacific island volunteers, and European expatriates, notably within the French Foreign Legion.

Naval and Air Power

The Free French Naval Forces (FNFL) operated alongside the Royal Navy and Royal Canadian Navy, participating in convoy escort duties during the Battle of the Atlantic and supporting amphibious operations. The Free French Air Force contributed units, including the renowned Normandie-Niemen fighter regiment, which served with distinction on the Eastern Front alongside the Soviet Air Force. Naval infantry and commando units also played crucial roles in various theaters.

Internal Resistance

Beyond the overseas forces, Free France actively supported and coordinated the French Resistance within occupied France, known as the French Forces of the Interior (FFI). These internal resistance groups engaged in sabotage, intelligence gathering, and guerrilla warfare, significantly disrupting German operations and contributing to the eventual liberation of France. Key figures like Jean Moulin worked to unify these disparate resistance networks under de Gaulle's leadership.

Key Campaigns and Theaters

Africa and the Middle East

Free French forces were instrumental in campaigns across Africa. They participated in the Battle of Dakar (Operation Menace), the capture of Kufra, the defense of Bir Hakeim during the North African campaign, and the Tunisian campaign. Their involvement in Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa, was pivotal in shifting the balance against Axis forces in the region.

Europe and the Mediterranean

In Europe, Free French units fought on multiple fronts. They participated in the Italian campaign, including the Battle of Monte Cassino, and the liberation of Corsica. Critically, they played a significant role in the liberation of France itself, with the 2nd Armoured Division (2e DB) famously liberating Paris. Free French forces also served on the Eastern Front with the Normandie-Niemen regiment.

Asia and the Pacific

Free France also extended its reach to its colonial territories in Asia and the Pacific. French India, New Caledonia, and French Polynesia rallied to the Free French cause, providing vital bases for Allied operations in the Pacific. French Indochina, though largely under nominal Vichy control, saw Japanese occupation and eventual resistance efforts.

Symbols of Resolve

The Cross of Lorraine

The Cross of Lorraine emerged as the principal symbol of Free France, proposed by Thierry d'Argenlieu. Chosen for its historical association with Joan of Arc, its connection to the province of Lorraine (partially annexed by Nazi Germany), and as a counterpoint to the Nazi swastika, it represented perseverance and defiance. It was prominently featured on the naval jack, cockades, and various insignia.

Flags and Insignia

The flag of Free France, featuring the Tricolore with the Cross of Lorraine, became a potent emblem of resistance. The Free French Naval Forces adopted a specific naval jack incorporating the Cross of Lorraine. Insignia for various units, such as the Free French Forces in the Far East, also bore the Cross of Lorraine, unifying the diverse branches of the movement under a common visual identity.

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References

"A Mesmerising Oratory", The Guardian, 29 April 2007.

P. M. H. Bell, France and Britain 1900â1940: Entente & Estrangement, London, New York, 1996, p. 249

Yapp, Peter, p. 235. The Travellers' Dictionary of Quotation. Retrieved October 2012

Pierre Milza. Exils et migration: Italiens et Espagnols en France, 1938â1946, L'Harmattan, 1994, p. 590

Brahim Senouci, PrÃ©face de StÃ©phane Hessel. AlgÃ©rie, une mÃ©moire Ã vif: Ou le camÃ©lÃ©on albinos. L'Harmattan, 2008, page 84

Gilles Aubagnac. "Le retrait des troupes noires de la 1re ArmÃ©e". Revue historique des armÃ©es, no 2, 1993, p. 34-46.

Koch, Lutz, Rommel, (1950) ASIN B008DHD4LY

Martin Thomas, "The Discarded Leader: General Henri Giraud and the Foundation of the French Committee of National Liberation", French History (1996) 10#12 pp. 86â111.

Tommaso Baris: "Despite the Anglo-American command's request, acts of violence by French troops continued, even after the liberation of Rome"

Olivier Forcade, Du capitaine de Hauteclocque au GÃ©nÃ©ral Leclerc, VingtiÃ¨me SiÃ¨cle, Revue d'histoire, AnnÃ©e 1998, Volume 58, NumÃ©ro 58, pp. 144â146

A full list of references for this article are available at the Free France Wikipedia page

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The Free French

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining Free France 📜

🏛️ A Government in Exile

🤝 Unifying Resistance

🌐 Evolving Structure

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🗓️ The Crucial Junctures

🌍 Colonial Allegiances

🔄 Consolidation and Recognition

The Free French Forces ⚔️

🎖️ Composition and Diversity

🚢 Naval and Air Power

💪 Internal Resistance

Key Campaigns and Theaters 🗺️

🌍 Africa and the Middle East

🇪🇺 Europe and the Mediterranean

🌏 Asia and the Pacific

Symbols of Resolve ⚜️

✨ The Cross of Lorraine

🚩 Flags and Insignia

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Free France

A Government in Exile

Unifying Resistance

Evolving Structure

Historical Trajectory

The Crucial Junctures

Colonial Allegiances

Consolidation and Recognition

The Free French Forces

Composition and Diversity

Naval and Air Power

Internal Resistance

Key Campaigns and Theaters

Africa and the Middle East

Europe and the Mediterranean

Asia and the Pacific

Symbols of Resolve

The Cross of Lorraine

Flags and Insignia

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice