The Principles of War - Lessons from Military History on Strategy, Tactics, Doctrine and Leadership. 70 - The French Centre of Gravity - Battle of France 1940 Part VI
Jun 14, 2021
Explore the strategic missteps of French military leadership during the Battle of France, focusing on how terrain evaluation and historical context shaped decisions. Discover lessons from the Franco-Prussian War and how they influenced military innovation. Understand the profound impact of World War I on French military philosophy, leading to a more integrated strategy. Delve into the flawed reliance on the Maginot Line and the unexpected German maneuvers through the Ardennes that challenged French efforts.
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French Doctrine: Attack to Excess
- The French developed the philosophy of attaquer entrances, an attack to excess, to overcome increased defensive firepower with dash and willpower.
- This doctrine reflected their adaptation struggles between 1918 and 1939 and the costly lessons of WWI.
WWI's Grave Impact on France
- WWI had a profound demographic impact on France, killing or wounding one in six people.
- This shaped French military planning to conserve manpower and avoid attrition warfare.
French Resources Near German Border
- 75% of France's coal and 95% of its iron ore were located near the German border, critical for industry and vulnerable.
- French population and resources concentrated near the frontier shaped strategic defense priorities.
