Charles de Gaulle

Charles de Gaulle was a French military officer and statesman who led Free France during World War II and later served as President of France from 1959 to 1969. He rose to prominence as a military leader during the war, becoming the leader of the Free French forces and rallying resistance against the Nazi occupation of France. After the war, de Gaulle played a key role in rebuilding and modernizing France, advocating for a strong, independent nation. He founded the Fifth Republic and served as its first president, implementing social and economic reforms. Known for his strong leadership and nationalist views, de Gaulle pursued a policy of grandeur and pursued nuclear capabilities for France. He resigned in 1969 after a failed referendum, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most influential figures in modern French history.