description Charles de Gaulle Overview
Charles de Gaulle was a French military officer and statesman who led Free French forces during World War II and founded the French Fifth Republic. He served as President from 1959 to 1969, pursuing policies that emphasized French independence, including withdrawal from NATO's integrated military command. De Gaulle granted independence to Algeria in 1962 and developed France's nuclear deterrent.
help Charles de Gaulle FAQ
What did Charles de Gaulle do during World War II?
After France fell in 1940, de Gaulle led the Free French movement from exile and called for continued resistance to Nazi Germany. He later headed the provisional French government following liberation.
How did Charles de Gaulle create the Fifth Republic?
De Gaulle returned to power during the 1958 Algerian crisis and supported a new constitution with a stronger executive presidency. The resulting Fifth Republic replaced the unstable parliamentary structure of the Fourth Republic.
Did de Gaulle take France out of NATO?
France remained a NATO member, but de Gaulle withdrew it from the alliance's integrated military command in 1966. He also required foreign NATO forces and headquarters to leave French territory.
Why did Charles de Gaulle resign as president in 1969?
De Gaulle tied his political future to a referendum on Senate and regional reform. When voters rejected the proposal in April 1969, he resigned rather than remain in office after the defeat.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
