Paul Reynaud

ModernPoliticianFrance1878 — 1966

French prime minister during Fall of France.

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Quick Facts

Born

1878

Died

1966

Country

France

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)49

Political (20%)47

Influence (20%)55

Legacy (20%)49

Leadership (15%)52

Strategy (15%)43

Total Score50.0

Paul Reynaud — Complete Timeline

1940 AD

Appointment as Prime Minister during the Fall of FrancePolitical Action

Reynaud became Prime Minister of France on March 21, 1940, during the German invasion. He attempted to rally resistance, appointing Charles de Gaulle as Under-Secretary of State for War, but faced military collapse and political opposition, leading to France's armistice with Germany in June 1940.

World War IIFall of FranceGovernment

Impact: globaltragic

Proposal for Franco-British UnionPolitical Action◆ Major

As the German army advanced, Reynaud proposed a union between France and Britain to continue the war. The plan, supported by Churchill, was rejected by the French cabinet, leading to Reynaud's resignation and the formation of P

World War IIDiplomacyFranco-British Union

Impact: global

Arrest and Imprisonment by Vichy RegimePolitical Action◆ Major

After resigning, Reynaud was arrested by the Vichy regime in September 1940. He was tried and sentenced to life imprisonment in 1942, held in various prisons and later deported to Germany. He was liberated in 1945, having refused to collaborate with the Nazis.

Vichy FranceImprisonmentWorld War II

Impact: nationaltragic

1948 AD

Return to Politics and Ministerial RolesPolitical Action

After the war, Reynaud returned to politics, serving as Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs in 1948. He advocated for European integration and economic liberalization, but his influence waned as the Fourth Republic stabilized, and he retired from active politics in the 1950s.

Fourth RepublicPost-WarEconomic Policy

Impact: nationalconstructive