Fall of France in June 1940 End of Third Republic Appointment of Marshal Petain as head of government – June 16, 1940 1st priority seek armistice with Germany, retaining French control of 60% of France 2nd priority - create government: Vichy established July 2. 3rd priority - preserve fleet and overseas French Empire

The Wrench in the Works:

Col. Charles DeGaulLe, last minister appointed by the 3rd Republic flees to London, and declares on June 19th uncompromising fight against Nazi Germany and collaborationists (Vichy France)