Philippe Petain

ModernGeneralFrance1856 — 1951

Hero of Verdun who later led Vichy France.

Compare Philippe Petain with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

1856

Died

1951

Country

France

Era

Modern

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)70

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)82

Legacy (20%)55

Leadership (15%)71

Strategy (15%)68

Total Score68.9

Philippe Petain — Complete Timeline

1916 AD

Battle of VerdunWar

Pétain commanded the French Second Army during the Battle of Verdun, organizing the defense and supply lines. His leadership and the phrase 'They shall not pass' made him a national hero, though the battle was a bloody stalemate.

World War IWestern FrontDefense

Impact: national

1917 AD

Suppressed the 1917 French Army MutiniesPolitical Action◆ Major

After the failed Nivelle Offensive, P

World War IMutinyCommand

Impact: national

1940 AD

Appointed Prime Minister of Vichy FrancePolitical Action

After the French defeat by Germany, P

World War IIVichy FranceCollaboration

Impact: nationaldestructive

Implemented the Vichy Regime's Anti-Semitic LawsPolitical Action◆ Major

Pétain's government enacted the Statut des Juifs, excluding Jews from public life and many professions. This was part of a broader collaboration with Nazi Germany, including the deportation of French Jews to concentration camps.

World War IIAnti-SemitismCollaboration

Impact: nationaldestructive

1945 AD

Tried and Convicted for TreasonPolitical Action◆ Major

After the liberation of France, P

World War IITrialJustice

Impact: national