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However, in weeks in the late spring and early summer of 1940, it became clear that France was woefully unprepared for the German onslaught. France suffered a humiliating defeat and was quickly occupied by Germany. Its failure was a result of a hopelessly divided French political elite, a lack of quality military leadership, rudimentary French military tactics. On the battlefield, France faced a vastly more prepared German army that utilized both more advanced weapons and sophisticated tactics. It was a mismatch.

[[File:Stuka file.jpg|thumbnail|300px|left|Stuka dive bomber, 1940]]

France had been fearful of Germany ever since the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. In this war, the Prussians had quickly defeated the French and occupied much of the country. In World War I, The Germans had come very close to defeating the French, and without allied assistance, the country would have lost to Germany. Despite being among the victors in World War One, the French still dreaded a conflict with Germany. During the Versailles treaty negotiations after the collapse of Germany during World War, French negotiators were adamant Germany's military had to be neutralized.

However, the Great Depression and the rise of Hitler meant that the French were suddenly faced with a potentially aggressive regime in Germany. The French adopted a diplomatic policy of appeasement and sought to placate Hitler by offering him concessions, such as allowing him to re-militarize the Rhineland. Still, France took no chances and began to prepare their defenses.

[[File:Hochwald_historic_photo.jpg|thumbnail|300px|left|Anti-tank turret at the Ouvrage Hochwald fortification on the Maginot Line in 1940]]

====When Did Germany Invade France? - May 10, 1940====