Everything Everywhere Daily · Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Following the defeat of France in 1940, Germany occupied approximately three-fifths of French territory, establishing a puppet regime known as Vichy France, with its seat of government in Vichy. Led by Marshal Philippe Petain, this authoritarian government aligned with German interests and suppressed civil liberties, though it initially garnered some popular support due to perceived stability.
“The Germans established an occupation zone encompassing about three-fifths of French territory, covering the coastline as well as the majority of North and West France.”
“The area that the Germans did not directly occupy would be run by a puppet regime, officially known as the French State, but more commonly referred to as Vichy France.”
“World War I hero, Marshal Philippe Petain, was selected to lead the Vichy government.”