-
The collapse of the Third Republic in June 1940 was a political decision, not just a military outcome. Divided between “Resisters” led by Paul Reynaud, who wished to continue the war from North Africa, and “Armistice” advocates led by Marshal Pétain, the government ultimately chose to seek terms with Germany. This choice was driven by a military leadership that feared internal social disorder more than occupation and a conservative elite who viewed the defeat as an opportunity for an authoritarian “National Revolution.” The resignation of Reynaud and the National Assembly’s vote to grant Pétain full powers marked the legal end…