The History of the Twentieth Century 428 An Idea of Simple Genius
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Dec 14, 2025 Dive into the intricate preparations for the Allied invasion of France, exploring the delicate dance between Charles de Gaulle and the Allies. Learn about the French Committee of National Liberation's bold claims and the growing tension with Roosevelt. Discover the pivotal role of ports in the invasion and Churchill's innovative Mulberry artificial harbors. The challenges of communication security and military strategies unfold as the podcast reveals the stakes of the looming conflict and the German defenses lining the coast.
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De Gaulle's Sovereignty Problem
- Charles de Gaulle feared post-liberation civil war and wanted French political legitimacy restored immediately.
- His insistence on French sovereignty complicated Allied operational and diplomatic planning.
Cipher Humiliation In London
- British cryptographer Leo Marx decrypted a Free French message with pencil and paper to prove their codes were hopelessly obsolete.
- The demonstration embarrassed the Free French but failed to make them adopt better ciphers.
De Gaulle Snubs D-Day Briefing
- De Gaulle initially refused Churchill's invitation and later declined the radio message and liaison participation on principle.
- His stance provoked Churchill's fury and strained Allied unity just before D-Day.