CLASH OF ARMS

THE FALL OF FRANCE

DISASTER IN THE WEST 1939 – 40

(GEORGE FORTY & JOHN DUNCAN)

This book is a remarkable example of what can be achieved when two very different kinds of creative talent are set to work on the same important task.  In this case, to record the astonishing sequence of events leading up to Germany’s attack on France in May 1940, and the no less astonishing conquest that followed.  Looking back, it is now clear that Hitler's triumph must stand as one of the most important and far-reaching military victories in the whole of Europe’s long history.

The adverse effects of the Treaty of Versailles upon Germany are discussed, strategic and tactical considerations during the inter-war years closely examined, and the organisational structure and equipment of the German army compared with those of the allies, including Belgium and Holland.  Part One of the book closes with a penetrating analysis of the state of civilian and military morale in Britain, France, and Germany during the outbreak of the Second World War and during the early months of the war itself.

In Part Two we follow the dramatic events as they occur during those crucial early months.  First the blitzkrieg on Poland, where the 19^th century was finally defeated by the 20^th on the field of battle.  Then the period of so-called Phoney War, and the many questions that remained unanswered until comparatively recently.  Why did the allies not attack Hitler while he was fully engaged on the eastern front?  Why did Hitler not press home his advantage after the Polish collapse?  What were the real reasons for the invasions of Denmark and Norway?  Was the German army so much more powerful than those of Britain and France?

The last three chapters of the book are devoted to the campaign in northern France, in which the fast-moving events on the ground are described with great clarity and grasp of detail.  The thrust through the Ardennes, the dash to the Channel coast, the encirclement of a large part of the French army and the BEF, the deliverance at Dunkirk, and the final battle for France are all revealed with great insight and conviction that bring these highly charged events vividly to life once more, with all the immediacy and authenticity of an eyewitness account.

‘The Fall of France’ is a book for the general reader as well as for the student of military history.  The lessons the authors draw from the momentous events they describe as valid today as they were when they happened.  Their enduring account is concerned not only with the great movement of powerful armies and the clash of arms, but also with the evil genius of one man, Adolf Hitler, who brought about the destruction of entire nations and caused the deaths of millions of his fellow men. Until he, too, met his end, savaged by the dogs of war he had unleashed upon a frightened and divided Europe.

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This 1990 edition hardback publication is in very good overall condition.  The pages are tightly bound and are free from tears, creases, and significant marks.  The dustjacket displays only light rubbing and minor knocks to the edges and corners (see photograph).  The book runs to 183 pages (27.5cm x 21.5cm), includes a general index is well indexed and is very well illustrated with photographs throughout the text; many in colour.