Charles de Gaulle

Definition

Charles de Gaulle was a French military leader and statesman who played a pivotal role in the Second World War and later became the President of France. He is best known for leading the Free French Forces against Nazi Germany after the fall of France in 1940 and for his vision of a strong, independent France during and after the war. De Gaulle's leadership and determination were crucial during the Dunkirk evacuation, as he worked to rally French resistance and maintain hope in a time of crisis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. De Gaulle was a brigadier general at the time of France's defeat in 1940 and was appointed under-secretary of defense, where he took a prominent role in organizing resistance against Nazi occupation.
2. He famously broadcast a speech from London on June 18, 1940, urging the French people to resist German occupation and join him in fighting for their country's liberation.
3. De Gaulle's leadership during the Dunkirk evacuation helped inspire both military and civilian morale, emphasizing that the fight against Nazism was far from over despite France's defeat.
4. After the war, de Gaulle became the first President of the Fifth Republic in 1959, where he sought to restore France's status as a global power.
5. His legacy includes advocating for a strong national identity and independent foreign policy for France, which continues to influence French politics today.

Review Questions

• How did Charles de Gaulle's leadership influence the morale of both French citizens and military personnel during the early stages of World War II?
  • Charles de Gaulle's leadership provided a beacon of hope for both French citizens and military personnel during the early stages of World War II. After the fall of France, his speeches encouraged resistance against Nazi Germany, inspiring people to believe that their fight was not over. His determination to rally support for the Free French Forces boosted morale at home and among Allied troops, reinforcing the idea that France would ultimately be liberated.
• Discuss the role of Charles de Gaulle in shaping France's military strategy during the Dunkirk evacuation.
  • During the Dunkirk evacuation, Charles de Gaulle played a critical role in coordinating French military efforts despite the chaos surrounding the situation. He advocated for a stronger defense against German forces while also supporting the evacuation process. His ability to rally troops and maintain organization allowed many soldiers to escape capture, showcasing his strategic mindset even amidst overwhelming odds.
• Evaluate how Charles de Gaulle's vision for an independent France evolved after World War II and its implications for post-war European politics.
  • After World War II, Charles de Gaulle's vision for an independent France evolved significantly as he sought to redefine France’s role on the world stage. His desire for a strong national identity led to policies that emphasized sovereignty over collaboration with other powers. This perspective impacted post-war European politics by promoting national interests over collective security arrangements, influencing other nations' approaches to their own sovereignty and alliances during the Cold War era.

Related terms

Free French Forces: The military organization led by Charles de Gaulle, composed of French troops who continued to fight against Axis powers after the fall of France.

Dunkirk Evacuation:

The mass evacuation of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk, France, between May 26 and June 4, 1940, which became a symbol of hope and resilience during World War II.

Vichy France: The government established in southern France after the country's defeat by Germany, which collaborated with Nazi authorities and opposed de Gaulle's Free French Forces.