Free France

The Free French movement, founded by General Charles de Gaulle in London on 18 June 1940, represented the continuation of French sovereignty for those who refused the Vichy armistice. Initially a tiny force with almost no official recognition, it grew through the rallying of French colonial territories (particularly Equatorial Africa under Félix Éboué), the formation of Fighting French units from volunteers, and the political legitimacy de Gaulle constructed through sheer force of will and skillful management of Allied politics. Free French forces fought in North Africa, Italy, and the liberation of France; the French 2nd Armoured Division under General Leclerc led the liberation of Paris. The Comité Français de Libération Nationale (CFLN) became the Provisional Government of the French Republic on liberation.

• Existed: 1940 CE – 1944 CE
• Type: Entity
• Government: Government-in-exile (de facto)
• Capital: London (in exile)