The Maginot Line is the third French fortified system. While its construction is explained by the prevailing context of the interwar period, it is also explained by a centuries-old pattern of behaviour aimed at securing French borders.
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Yet in the minds of many, this line is the very symbol of the defeat of 1940, even though it witnessed battles in which the French soldier conducted himself with honour; its 22,000 men only laid down their arms on orders, after the armistice of 22 June. But, in a disaster of strategic proportions, did it play the role intended for it?
Hence the many questions that lead one to ask what purpose this defensive system — undeniably a technical marvel, yet a source of misunderstandings — was designed to serve; questions this study attempts to answer through a deliberately fresh approach. It is indeed the lesser-treated or under-developed aspects that it focuses on: political, economic, diplomatic…
The Maginot Line is also the great French construction project of the interwar period, representing a considerable effort for the country and for the military institution. This undertaking is also reflected in the establishment of the fortress troops, who seemed to deserve particular attention.
Finally, examining the Maginot Line means assessing the weight it carried in the choices made by the German command — from a perspective not always consistent with the commonly accepted view.
The Maginot Line? It is first and foremost the culmination of three centuries of French history!
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