Vichy
Vichy refers to both a historical period and a town in France:
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Vichy France
Vichy France, also known as the French State, was the de facto government of France during World War II, established following the French surrender to Germany in June 1940. Here are some key points:
- Formation: After the armistice with Germany in 1940, Marshal Philippe Pétain was appointed head of the new government, which was officially named the French State, although commonly referred to as Vichy France due to its administrative center in the spa town of Vichy.
- Collaboration: The regime collaborated with the Nazi German occupiers, leading to policies that included the persecution of Jews, suppression of political dissent, and alignment with German military and economic interests.
- Resistance: Despite its collaboration, there were pockets of resistance within France, with many French citizens joining or supporting the French Resistance against both the German occupation and the Vichy government.
- End: The Liberation of France in 1944 effectively ended the Vichy regime. Pétain was later tried and convicted for treason.
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Vichy, the Town
Vichy is a town in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of central France, known for:
- Spa Town: Vichy is renowned for its thermal springs, which have made it a famous spa destination since the Roman era.
- Historical Significance: The town gained additional historical significance during World War II as the administrative capital of Vichy France.
- Tourism: Today, Vichy attracts tourists for its mineral springs, historical sites, and cultural events like the Vichy Opera House and the Vichy International Festival.
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