Prahlad Srihari

Oct,26 2017 

After Germany's occupation of France in 1940, hundreds and thousands of Europeans - aristocrats, celebrities, soldiers and ordinary citizens - fled their homes to escape war, persecution, and poverty. With hope and exit routes slowly evaporating, these refugees sought temporary sanctuary in neighbouring Arab countries like Algeria and Morocco.

So, they began a long, arduous journey through Vichy-controlled France, across the Mediterranean to Oran in Algeria, then by train, road or foot along the northern coast of Africa to Casablanca in Morocco. The more fortunate ones used their wealth and influence to acquire exit visas and a trip to Lisbon in Portugal. From there, they flew or sailed to America and elsewhere.