In June 1940, as France faced the grim reality of a German invasion, Prime Minister Paul Reynaud's refusal to sign an armistice led to his resignation. Marshal Philippe Petain succeeded him and expressed his intent to seek an agreement with Germany. Appalled by this decision, General Charles de Gaulle, leader of the Free French Forces, managed to escape to England on June 15. Seeking Winston Churchill's permission, de Gaulle delivered a resolute radio speech on the BBC. In his address, de Gaulle urged the French people not to lose hope and to persist in their resistance against the German occupation and the Vichy Regime.

A worthy excerpt of his historic speech:

'''But has the last word been said? Must hope disappear? Is defeat final? No!

Believe me, I who am speaking to you with full knowledge of the facts, and who tell you that nothing is lost for France. The same means that overcame us can bring us victory one day. For France is not alone! She is not alone! She is not alone! She has a vast Empire behind her. She can align with the British Empire that holds the sea and continues the fight. She can, like England, use without limit the immense industry of the United States.

This war is not limited to the unfortunate territory of our country. This war is not over as a result of the Battle of France. This war is a worldwide war. All the mistakes, all the delays, all the suffering, do not alter the fact that there are, in the world, all the means necessary to crush our enemies one day. Vanquished today by mechanical force, in the future we will be able to overcome by a superior mechanical force. The fate of the world depends on it.''

Overall, General de Gaulle's remarkable capacity to inspire and his resolute call for courage in the face of adversity left an enduring mark not only on France but also on the world. His speech stands as a pinnacle of leadership and eloquence, symbolizing the spirit of an era and setting the unwavering tone for the resilient resistance against the Vichy Regime and the German occupation during World War II.

Written & Animated by RealTalk

Narrated by Adam

Music 'Helios' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

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