De Gaulle's "Vive le Québec libre!" sparks controversy and fuels Quebec sovereignty movement.

During a visit to Canada, Charles de Gaulle, the President of France, made a declaration that would resonate through Canadian and Quebecois history. Standing on the balcony of Montreal’s City Hall, de Gaulle ended his speech with the words "Vive le Québec libre!" This phrase, which translates to "Long live free Quebec!" was a clear expression of support for the Quebec sovereignty movement. The statement was unexpected and provocative, causing immediate controversy both within Canada and internationally. At the time, Quebec was experiencing a revival of nationalist sentiment, driven by a desire for greater autonomy from the federal government. This movement sought to protect and promote French-Canadian culture and language in a predominantly English-speaking Canada. De Gaulle's endorsement was seen as an external validation of these aspirations, giving momentum to the sovereignty movement. The official Canadian response was swift and negative. Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson expressed strong disapproval