Paris fell to German forces on June 14, 1940. The city was under occupation for four years, a time marked by both hardship and resilience. The French government fled to Bordeaux, leaving Paris to the Nazis. The occupation transformed the city. The French flag was replaced by the swastika, and life changed drastically.
The German commandant, General Dietrich von Choltitz, was tasked with controlling Paris. He famously disobeyed Hitler's orders to destroy the city before retreating. His decision spared Paris from destruction, a testament to conflicting loyalties and the complexities of war.
The French Resistance, a network of groups fighting against German occupation, was critical. They engaged in sabotage, intelligence gathering, and supporting Allied forces. A notable figure was Jean Moulin, who united various factions of the Resistance. His capture and torture by the Gestapo in 1943 heightened the resolve of the Resistance.
Paris was also a hub for espionage. The Station S, a British intelligence operation, operated from the city. Agents like Virginia Hall, an American, played pivotal roles in aiding the Resistance. Hall, known for her courage and resourcefulness, was one of the most wanted spies by the Nazis.
Life under occupation was marked by scarcity. Rationing limited food and supplies. The black market thrived, with Parisians trading goods for essentials. The iconic Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots became gathering spots for intellectuals and artists, who often discussed resistance against the occupiers.
The liberation of Paris began on August 19, 1944. The Resistance staged uprisings, leading to street battles. The Free French Forces, led by General Charles de Gaulle, entered the city on August 25. De Gaulle delivered a famous speech from the Hôtel de Ville, declaring Paris liberated.
The war left scars on the city. Buildings were damaged, and the populace was traumatized. Yet, Paris emerged with a spirit of renewal. The post-war era saw a cultural renaissance, with artists and writers like Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre shaping the intellectual landscape.