Liberation of Paris
Liberation of France (Second World War) · Paris and the Paris suburbs, France
Summary
The liberation of Paris during the Second World War took place from 19 to 25 August 1944, marking the end of the Battle of Paris. This episode formed part of the Liberation and ended four years of occupation of the French capital. Lieutenant Amado Granell's section from La Nueve was the first to reach central Paris.
Historical context
As Allies advanced in Normandy, COMAC and the National Resistance Council launched the Paris uprising on 19 August. FFI seized prefectures and town halls; Germans entrenched in public buildings. Eisenhower hesitated then authorized Leclerc to rush on Paris against some American strategists' advice.
Tactics
FFI harassed German positions in Paris while Leclerc bypassed the city from the south. The 2nd DB entered through Porte d'Orléans on 24 August; street fighting pitted French tanks against German positions. Choltitz, disobeying Hitler's orders to destroy Paris, negotiated surrender with French General Juin.
Consequences
Paris was liberated without massive destruction thanks to Choltitz's decision. De Gaulle installed the provisional government at the Hôtel de Ville on 25 August. Liberation confirmed Fighting France and Resistance legitimacy; it symbolically marked the end of occupation on metropolitan territory.