What happened May 1940 AD in France, French Republic

In May 1940, Germany attacked France. and conquered Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

Germany launched an offensive against France. To circumvent the strong Maginot Line fortifications on the Franco-German border, Germany directed its attack at the neutral nations of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

De Gaulle activated his new division on 12 May. which gave him command of the 4th Armoured Division.

In late-March de Gaulle was told by Reynaud that he would be given command of the 4th Armoured Division, due to form by 15 May.

The Germans broke through at Sedan on 15 May 1940.

On 18 May he was reinforced by two fresh regiments of armored cavalry, bringing his strength up to 150 vehicles.

Charles attacked again on 19 May and his forces were once again devastated by German Stukas and artillery. He ignored orders from General Georges to withdraw, and in the early afternoon demanded two more divisions from Touchon, who refused his request.

Charles delayed his retreat until 20 May.

On 21 May, at the request of propaganda officers, he gave a talk on French radio about his recent attack.

In recognition of his efforts de Gaulle was promoted to the rank of temporary (acting, in Anglophone parlance) brigadier-general on 23 May 1940.