ABSTRACT

The years 1934 to 1944 remain the most contentious and dramatic decade in modern French history. Covering the Occupation, the Vichy regime, the Resistance and collaboration, Nick Atkin provides an important introduction to this key period. Accessible and concise, the book offers a wide-ranging synthesis of key themes and events. Looking ahead to the present day, the book also examines how the French establishment and public have coped with the legacy of Vichy, and explains why the occupation is still ever present in French politics and everyday life. 

part One|11 pages

The Context

chapter One|9 pages

Interpreting the Vichy Regime

part Two|79 pages

Analysis

chapter Two|14 pages

The Third Republic, 1934–40

chapter Three|11 pages

The Defeat

chapter Four|20 pages

Vichy

chapter Five|16 pages

Collaboration

chapter Six|16 pages

Resistance

part Three|6 pages

Assessment

chapter Seven|4 pages

An Unconquerable Past?

part Four|28 pages

Documents