18th Annual Student Research Conference
Social Science
When the French Helped Save Europe: The French Resistance and D-Day
Sarah E. Jones
Dr. Torbjörn Wandel , Faculty Mentor
In examining the Allied invasions of Normandy on 6 June 1944, most historians briefly acknowledge the role of the men and women of the French Resistance in the landings. Few, however, recognize the magnitude and significance of French contributions to the success of D-Day, which ultimately forced Germany to abandon its occupation of France and changed the direction of World War II in Europe. As French Resistance workers aided the D-Day efforts through intelligence acquisition and espionage, sabotage efforts, and supportive public opinion, they provided the operation with invaluable assistance that only the citizens of the occupied country could offer. Despite historical disregard, there is an imperative and direct connection between French Resistance efforts and the Allies' successful invasion of occupied France. Without the contribution of the French Resistance to the successful execution of the D-Day invasions, the Allies' failure in France would have been imminent.
Keywords: D-Day, French Resistance, World War II
Topic(s):History
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 57-2
Location: VH 1416
Time: 4:00