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Lecture

William Tyler
Is France War Ready?

Monday 8.12.2025

How to watch

This lecture starts on 8 December at 5:00pm (UK).

Summary

France was prepared in the field of its military strength and resources, but less so in its strategic planning, and, like Britain, in the competence of its senior officers. France was also vulnerable to German attack as its main industrial base was situated near the German border. Additionally, the political instability of the Third French Republic was a recurring problem.

William Tyler

An image of William Tyler
William Tyler has spent his entire professional life in adult education, beginning at Kingsgate College in 1969. He has lectured widely for many public bodies, including the University of Cambridge and the WEA, in addition to speaking to many clubs and societies. In 2009, William was awarded the MBE for services to adult education, and he has previously been a scholar in residence at the London Jewish Cultural Centre. Link to William’ s blog with recommended book lists for his Lockdown lectures.