Remembering the forgotten blitz: bombing and reconciliation in Paris and Normandy and how Coventry showed the way with Dr David Lees.

In 1944, the population of northern and central France were subject to a ferocious and intense bombing campaign by Allied air forces. The civilian populations of Normandy and the industrial suburbs of Paris, in particular Boulogne-Billancourt, home of the Renault factory, faced the brunt of these attacks. Despite causing as much devastation as the Blitz, the experiences of this bombardment have been largely overlooked. It was only in the 2000s that the French people impacted by these bombs were encouraged to speak about their experiences. This talk will explore the ways that the civilian population of northern and central France have used the example set by Coventry and Dresden as a move towards reconciliation with the past.

Dr David Lees teaches and researches modern French history and politics. In particular, David has worked extensively on the history of France during the Second World War, including the lived experiences of French people under the Vichy government and Nazi Occupation.

The recommended age for this event is 14+.

Please note, this event will discuss the bombings of towns in France, as well as Coventry and Dresden.

This event is organised by University of Warwick School of Languages and Cultures and Shared By Resonate.