Vichy

Source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vichy_France

Vichy France was established after France surrendered to Germany on 22nd June 1940 and took its name from the government's administrative centre in Vichy, central France.

Vichy France, Vichy regime or Vichy government are common terms used to describe the government of France that collaborated with the Axis powers from July 1940 - August 1944.

It called itself the French state (État Français). 

Pétain had power of this 'Vichy government'  - He was the last prime minister of the Third Republic - He commissioned the Révolution nationale - aimed at regenerating the nation.

The Vichy regime still had some power over the Northern side of France 'zone occupé' which was inhabited by Germans and reigned by Reich; although the laws set by the Vichy regime would only go ahead if they didn't contradict or compromise existing Reich laws.

Vichy was most powerful and effective in the southern parts of France in the 'zone libre' - mainly due to the fact that the Vichy administrative centre was located in southern France until November 1942.

All was well until 8 November 1942, when Hitler took over the Southern zone - it was now subject to German ruling and became like the Northern zone. (All except the Alps which was under Italian reign until September 1943.)

After the defeat of France in world war I, Pétain collaborated with German forces but the Vichy government refused to surrender. However, the military ties with Germany weakened over time.

Vichy government put up a limited resistance to the allied invasion of North Africa - more commanders and units in Africa joining the French free forces - The Vichy regime ordered the French police to go on raids to capture Jews and other 'undesirables' and members of the resistance thus helping reinforce German policy in occupied zones. 

Vichy also produced German inspired laws which restricted political freedom and took rights away from foreigners and racial minorities. 

Vichy France and Pétain's leadership was constantly challenged by Charles de Gaulle - who claimed to represent the legitimacy and continuity of the French government.

Public opinions turned against the Vichy regime and German laws and resistance to them in France grew over time. Subsequently, Charles de Gaulle made his own government called: Government of the French Republic (GPRF) in June 1944. - This government took power in Paris on the 31st August and was subsequently recognised as the official government of France.