Marche Noir: The Economy of Survival in Second World War France

The black market in Vichy France was a vital strategy for survival for commerce and consumers, becoming prevalent and powerful due to economic controls and collaboration with Germany. Kenneth Mouré's book "Marché Noir" explores the dynamics of black markets in wartime, highlighting their importance in everyday life and their impact on the regime's legitimacy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In his insightful book "Marché Noir: The Black Market in Vichy France," Kenneth Mouré delves into the intricate web of the black market in Vichy France, revealing its multifaceted nature and its crucial role in both serving German exploitation and providing a lifeline for commerce and consumers alike. Through meticulous analysis, Mouré elucidates the factors that led to the prevalence and power of the black market in France, highlighting its enduring significance even after Liberation.

The book draws upon a rich tapestry of French archives, diaries, memoirs, and contemporary fiction to shed light on the indispensable role of the black market in everyday life. The economic controls imposed by Vichy France created a fertile ground for adaptations, as both commerce and consumers grappled with the constraints of economic and political realities. The collaboration between Vichy authorities and the black market further eroded the regime's legitimacy, as it undermined its claims to be the sole legitimate authority in the country.

"Marché Noir" offers fresh perspectives on the dynamics of black markets during wartime, unveiling how illicit trade in France served not only to exploit consumer needs and augment German power but also to support communities in their quest for survival. The book explores the complex interplay between the regime, the black market operators, and the ordinary people who relied on it to meet their basic needs, highlighting the resilience and ingenuity of the French people in the face of adversity.

Through its comprehensive exploration of the black market in Vichy France, "Marché Noir" provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complexities of wartime economies and the strategies employed by individuals and communities to navigate them. Mouré's meticulous research and compelling storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history of World War II, the French Resistance, and the resilience of the human spirit.

ISBN-13: 9781009207669