The last Prime Minister of the French Third Republic was thrust into office just in time for the crucible of 1940, whereupon he presided over the fall of his nation to German invasion. A lifelong politician, he would go on to serve an important role in the post-war French government as well.

The man called to save France as she was overrun in the early summer of 1940 would prove to be a major factor in her undoing, being a staunch proponent of capitulation and later prominent figure in the Vichy regime.

The Commander in Chief of the French Army in the Second World War until his removal as France crumbled in late May of 1940, Maurice Gamelin is best remembered for his steadfast loyalty to the Republic and his failures to lead its defense.