french resistance

5 articles

Sep9

2015Where was the 1944 liberation of Paris decided?

The crucial decision to launch the liberation of Paris in 1944 was made at the Château du Bois-Gamats, just south of Laval on the banks of the Mayenne river in western France. Here, on 22 August 1944, General Philippe Leclerc received the long-awaited order from General Omar Bradley to lead his 2ème Division Blindée toward the French capital, shifting the course of the war in France. The château, which had served as a German headquarters until its liberation earlier that month, stands out as the very place where Paris's fate was sealed—today, a special milestone marker at its entrance commemorates this pivotal moment. This commemorative marker is one of the many “Bornes” along the historic 2nd Armoured Division Road, a route stretching over 1,145 kilometers and symbolizing the Allied advance from Normandy to the liberation of Western Europe.

Mar17

2008Who is officially recognized as the last surviving French combatant from the First World War?

Lazare Ponticelli, born in Italy and later naturalized as French, is officially recognized as France’s last surviving combatant of the First World War. His story is significant both as a living link to the generation of "poilus" and for his steadfast participation in annual remembrance ceremonies at the 'monument aux morts' until the year before his death in 2008 at the remarkable age of 110. Ponticelli requested that his state funeral be modest, with a memorial mass at Les Invalides honoring all his fallen comrades—emphasizing collective memory over individual glory. On March 17, 2008, this wish was fulfilled as President Nicolas Sarkozy led the nation in unveiling a simple stone tablet, inviting the youth of France to remember the sacrifices of the 8.5 million countrymen who served during the Great War.

Feb3

1949What is the French 'Gratitude Train' of 1949?

The French 'Gratitude Train,' or 'Train de la Reconnaissance Française,' arrived in New York City on February 3, 1949, as a heartfelt thank you from the people of France to the citizens of America. This extraordinary gesture followed America's postwar relief efforts, most notably the bustling Friendship Train, which sent over 700 boxcars of food and aid to war-torn Europe in 1947. Packed with more than 52,000 gifts from French citizens of all walks of life, the 49 iconic 'Hommes 40 et Chevaux 8' boxcars—once used to transport troops in wartime—became cherished symbols of international gratitude, each bearing shields for France's provinces. Arizona's own Merci Train boxcar, restored and exhibited today, continues to remind visitors of this enduring story of generosity and friendship nearly eight decades later.

Jun18

1940During the Second World War, which French leader appealed to its people to rally in support of the Resistance?

At the French military school of Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan in Brittany, a striking monument commemorates the call to resistance issued by General Charles de Gaulle on 18 June 1940. De Gaulle's BBC-broadcasted speech became a rallying point for the Free French, challenging the armistice announced by Marshal Pétain and inspiring new waves of resistance both inside and outside France. The monument, designed by Pierre-André Dufetel and unveiled in 1995, features a flame-shaped sword and the Lorraine Cross, symbolizing the enduring spirit of defiance ignited by de Gaulle’s words. On the 85th anniversary in 2025, visitors reflect on how a single wartime broadcast reshaped French history and forged a legacy honored by generations of cadets and citizens alike.

Nov3

1870Which 19th century historical monument in France is the symbol of freedom and heroic resistance and took more than 130 years to have it officially inaugurated?

The Lion of Belfort stands as a colossal symbol of freedom and heroic resistance in Belfort, France, overlooking the town since its completion in 1880. Sculpted from pink Vosges sandstone by Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi, this monumental lion commemorates the 103-day siege endured by Colonel Pierre Denfert-Rochereau and his troops during the Franco-Prussian War. Remarkably, although beloved as a national icon for generations, the monument was not officially inaugurated until 2011—131 years after its unveiling. Today, the Lion continues to inspire patriotism and pride, marking key anniversaries, including the 155th year since the siege began and 145 years since its presentation.