Island of Sein, situated amidst tales and coral outcrops
Sein Island, nestled off the coast of Finistère in Brittany, France, is a small yet significant piece of land with a rich history and a strong connection to World War II and Charles de Gaulle.
Situated on the edge of the Iroise Sea, Sein Island appears to float, thanks to its narrow nature and location. This strategic position near the boundary between the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean made it important for maritime navigation.
Historically, Sein Island has deep roots in the Breton region, where the Breton language and culture hold a special place. The island's Breton dialect, with its unique mutations not found elsewhere except in the southern Vannes area, is a testament to this cultural richness.
During World War II, Sein Island gained prominence due to the patriotic actions of its inhabitants. On June 18, 1940, following Charles de Gaulle’s broadcast from London calling on French people to resist the Nazi occupation, the entire male population of the island—approximately 128 men—responded by sailing away to join de Gaulle’s Free French forces. This act symbolized defiance and support for Free France against Vichy and Nazi control.
As a result, Sein Island became symbolic of French resistance and de Gaulle’s leadership during the war. Although the search results do not elaborate on the island’s detailed WWII history or its direct connection with de Gaulle, this historical episode is well-known: Sein was one of the first French territories to rally behind de Gaulle’s call for resistance, earning it a special place in the narrative of Free French resistance efforts.
General Charles de Gaulle, impressed by the strong presence of the Seiners in London, famously remarked, "The island of Sein is a quarter of France!" The narrow, winding alleys of the island, lined with white houses and colored shutters, protect its residents from fierce winds.
Despite its challenging conditions, Sein is home to a population of around 280 people. Behind the alleys, the preserved coastal landscapes of Sein stretch as far as the eye can see. The island is bordered by the notorious Raz de Sein passage.
In summary, Sein Island's significance lies largely in its Breton cultural heritage and its emblematic role during World War II when the men of the island directly joined Charles de Gaulle’s Free French forces, thus making it a symbol of resistance and patriotism in occupied France.
On Sein Island, the narrow, winding alleys lined with white houses and colored shutters safeguard its residents from harsh winds, contributing to a unique home-and-garden lifestyle. This coastal enclave, known for its rich Breton culture, also bears a lasting wind in its legacy as a symbol of French lifestyle, due to the patriotic actions of its men during World War II and General de Gaulle's recognition.
