| − | After the so-called Phony War from 1939 to 1940, Nazi Germany managed to inflict a humiliating defeat on the French. France formally surrendered to Germany on June 25, 1940. The reorganized French government, centered in the city of Vichy, enthusiastically joined the Axis. In 1944, France was invaded by the Allied forces. After the French surrendered for the second time in less than five years, a new government led by Charles de Gaulle was established. | + | After the so-called Phony War from 1939 to 1940, Nazi Germany managed to inflict a humiliating defeat on the French. France formally surrendered to Germany on June 25, 1940. The reorganized French government, known as the [[Vichy regime]], enthusiastically joined the Axis. In 1944, France was invaded by the [[Allied powers]]. After the French surrendered for the second time in less than five years, a new government led by Charles de Gaulle was established. |