Today, we celebrate the birth of Charles De Gaulle, born on November 22, 1890. Known for his influential role in French history, De Gaulle led the French Resistance during WWII and later became the architect of the Fifth Republic, shaping the nation’s modern identity. His impact on France extended far beyond the battlefield, as he also worked to restore France’s position as a global power. Raised in a family that valued patriotism and military service, De Gaulle excelled in his studies and attended the prestigious military academy at Saint-Cyr. He quickly rose through the ranks, displaying leadership and courage during World War I. By the outbreak of World War II, De Gaulle had already established a reputation as a bold and unconventional military strategist.

In 1940, as France faced Nazi occupation, De Gaulle, with unwavering determination, fled to Britain. There, he made his famous radio broadcast, a beacon of hope calling on the French people to resist German forces. This appeal marked the beginning of his role as leader of the French Resistance. After the war, he helped shape the Fourth Republic but withdrew in 1946, frustrated by its instability. When France faced political turmoil again in 1958, De Gaulle returned to power and established the Fifth Republic, creating a new constitution that strengthened the role of the presidency, a system that endures today.

Fun Facts:

• “Appel du 18 Juin”: De Gaulle’s famous broadcast from London on June 18, 1940, is considered one of the founding moments of the French Resistance. It inspired countless French citizens to fight against the occupation.
• Founder of the Fifth Republic: In 1958, De Gaulle returned to lead France amid political instability. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the nation’s stability led to the founding of the Fifth Republic, bringing stability and strengthening the executive branch’s role.
• French Nuclear Power Program: Determined to assert France’s independence on the global stage, De Gaulle launched France’s nuclear program, which solidified its status as a global power.
• Legacy of Resilience: De Gaulle is remembered for his wartime leadership and his unyielding commitment to maintaining French sovereignty and unity. These ideals, deeply rooted in his patriotism, shaped his policies throughout his career.
• A National Hero: By his passing in 1970, De Gaulle cemented his place as a symbol of French pride and resilience, and he was honored in history as one of France’s greatest leaders.