Coin France 100 Francs Charles de Gaulle - Appel du 18 juin 1940 - 1994 - Silver

The "Appel du 18 juin" is a speech delivered by General Charles de Gaulle, leader of the Free French Forces, from the BBC studios in London on June 18, 1940, during World War II. This appeal is one of the most iconic moments in French history and played a crucial role in the French resistance against Nazi occupation.

The speech was given in response to the defeat and rapid occupation of France by Nazi Germany early in World War II. At that time, the French government led by Marshal Philippe Pétain had sought an armistice with Germany, and much of France was under Nazi military control.

In his appeal, General de Gaulle called on the French to resist the German occupation and not accept defeat. He urged French soldiers, workers, farmers, students, and all citizens to join him in continuing the fight against the enemy. Here is a famous excerpt from his speech:

"Whatever happens, the flame of French resistance must not and will not be extinguished."

This appeal was crucial in galvanizing internal resistance in France and in uniting the Free French Forces under General de Gaulle's leadership. It also served as the foundation for the formation of Free France, a resistance movement that played a significant role in the liberation of France at the end of the war.

The "Appel du 18 juin" has become a symbol of French resistance and the determination to fight for freedom and national sovereignty. Each year, June 18 is commemorated in France as "Fête de la Liberté" in honor of this historic appeal.