The Twilight of France, 1933-1940

xxii, 368 pp. Edited with an introduction by D.W. Brogan. Combining the flair of a first-class reporter with an eye-witness knowledge of French history, culture and life, Alexander Werth tells the grim story of the last years of the French Republic, from 1933-1940. This is the distinguished and authentic report of the critical years during which the preparations for the tragedy of 1940 were completed. It records the confusions, the weaknesses and the imbecilities of French policy. It explains the failure of the French to understand in time the real nature of the Nazi revolution. It makes appallingly clear the reasons why France was not prepared for the war, and the motives behind her surrender. It is the story of the whole shifting course of events, intrigues, diplomatic blunders and uncertain policy which contained the seeds of Vichy.--jacket