Charles de Gaulle's Biography

Charles de Gaulle was a towering figure in 20th-century French history, both literally and figuratively. Born on November 22, 1890, in Lille, France, de Gaulle rose to prominence as a French army officer before taking on the mantle of leadership during one of France’s darkest hours. As the principal architect of the Free French Forces during World War II, de Gaulle galvanized resistance against Nazi occupation and became the rallying symbol of French independence and resilience. His vision and unyielding spirit led to the liberation of France and solidified his place as a national hero. After the war, de Gaulle continued to shape the nation's destiny, founding the Fifth Republic in 1958 and serving as its first president. Known for his intellect, formidable height of 196 cm, and distinctive leadership style, de Gaulle was instrumental in modernizing France’s political structure and asserting its role on the global stage. His legacy endures through his writings, famous speeches, and reforms that continue to shape France today. Charles de Gaulle’s commitment to French greatness, combined with his passion for history and philosophy, made him not only a statesman but also a profound thinker whose influence remains deeply felt.