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De Gaulle: Statesmanship, Grandeur, and Modern Democracy

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Charles de Gaulle was one of the most important and influential figures of the 20th century. As the leader of France during World War II and the post-war period, he played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history. De Gaulle was a complex and enigmatic figure, and his life and career have been the subject of much debate and analysis.

De Gaulle: Statesmanship, Grandeur and Modern Democracy

by Ian Haney López

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	211 pages

In his new book, De Gaulle: Statesmanship, Grandeur, and Modern Democracy, historian Julian Jackson provides a comprehensive and insightful biography of De Gaulle. The book draws on a wide range of sources, including De Gaulle's own writings, the memoirs of his contemporaries, and newly declassified documents. Jackson paints a vivid portrait of De Gaulle, from his early years as a soldier to his rise to power as the leader of France. He explores De Gaulle's complex personality and his impact on French politics and culture.

Jackson argues that De Gaulle was a true statesman, who possessed a deep understanding of the challenges facing France in the 20th century. He was a visionary leader who was able to inspire his countrymen to greatness. De Gaulle was also a pragmatist who was willing to compromise when necessary. He was a master of statecraft who was able to navigate the treacherous waters of French politics.

Jackson's book is a major contribution to the historiography of De Gaulle and 20th-century France. It is a must-read for anyone interested in this fascinating figure and the era in which he lived.

De Gaulle's Early Life and Career

Charles de Gaulle was born in Lille, France, on November 22, 1890. He was the son of a Catholic family, and he received a traditional education. De Gaulle was a brilliant student, and he graduated from the prestigious École Polytechnique in 1912. He then served in the French army, where he rose to the rank of captain.

De Gaulle was a decorated war hero, and he was awarded the Croix de Guerre for his bravery in action. He was also a gifted writer, and he published several books on military strategy. In 1939, De Gaulle was appointed commander of the French Fifth Army. He led his troops into battle against the invading German forces, but he was forced to surrender after the French defeat in 1940.

De Gaulle's Role in World War II

After the fall of France, De Gaulle escaped to England, where he established the Free French movement. He called on his countrymen to continue the fight against the Nazis, and he became the leader of the Free French forces. De Gaulle was a charismatic leader, and he was able to inspire his countrymen to resist the German occupation.

De Gaulle played a key role in the Allied victory in World War II. He led the Free French forces in the liberation of France, and he was instrumental in the establishment of the Fourth Republic.

De Gaulle's Presidency

De Gaulle was elected president of France in 1958. He served as president for 10 years, and he oversaw a period of economic growth and prosperity. De Gaulle also made significant changes to French foreign policy, and he withdrew France from NATO.

De Gaulle was a controversial figure, but he was also a popular one. He was known for his strong leadership and his commitment to French sovereignty. De Gaulle died in 1970, and he is considered one of the most important figures in French history.

Charles de Gaulle was a complex and enigmatic figure. He was a brilliant statesman, a gifted writer, and a charismatic leader. He was also a controversial figure, but he was also a popular one. De Gaulle was a true patriot, and he dedicated his life to serving France. He was a visionary leader who was able to inspire his countrymen to greatness. He was also a pragmatist who was willing to compromise when necessary. He was a master of statecraft who was able to navigate the treacherous waters of French politics.

De Gaulle's legacy is complex and multifaceted. He was a great leader who helped to shape the course of 20th-century history. He was also a flawed human being who made mistakes. But there is no doubt that De Gaulle was one of the most important and influential figures of his time.

De Gaulle: Statesmanship, Grandeur and Modern Democracy

by Ian Haney López

5 out of 5