So, reading mostly from French sources it appears like Pétain is somewhat incompetent, and not great, even before the whole debacle of the French capitulation.
However, it may be a reinterpretation post-facto due to his difficult relationship with de Gaulle and his establishment of a fascist dictatorship.
So, up to him replacing Reynaud, how good was he? Was he actually competent? Were his views on warfare outdated?
I am curious to see how he's percieved abroad, especially by the many WWII scholars lurking around here.
Of note: I don't particularly want to discuss after he becomes head of state, really more interested in what happens before that