Charles de Gaulle

NAME Charles de Gaulle

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Charles de Gaulle was a French general, leader of the Free French Forces during World War II, and President of France from 1959 to 1969. He played a pivotal role in shaping modern France and European politics.

BIRTH Born on November 22, 1890, in Lille, France.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Charles de Gaulle was born into a patriotic and devoutly Catholic upper-middle-class family. He was the third of five children, and his upbringing played a significant role in shaping his future career and ideologies.

De Gaulle's father, Henri de Gaulle, was a philosophy and literature professor who later founded his own school. His mother, Jeanne (née Maillot), came from a family of wealthy entrepreneurs and had French, Irish, Scottish, and German ancestry

CHILDHOOD De Gaulle grew up in a disciplined environment and showed an early interest in military history and strategy. He was known for his strong will and independent spirit from an early age.

EDUCATION Charles de Gaulle received his early education in Paris, attending conservative Catholic schools. He was educated by the Jesuits during his childhood, an experience that instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and analytical thinking. From an early age, de Gaulle harbored ambitions of becoming a military leader. In 1909, he achieved his goal by securing a place at the prestigious Military Academy of Saint-Cyr. Though he entered ranked 119th out of 221 cadets, his performance improved significantly throughout his studies, culminating in his graduation 13th in his class in 1912.

De Gaulle as a cadet in Saint-Cyr, 1910

De Gaulle was a highly intellectual individual with a voracious appetite for knowledge. He began writing in his early teens and developed a deep appreciation for literature, particularly philosophical works by authors such as Bergson, Péguy, and Barrès. He also delved into the works of German philosophers like Nietzsche, Kant, and Goethe, as well as ancient Greek thinkers, notably Plato. History, particularly military history, captivated his interest from a young age.

De Gaulle's military aspirations were evident even in his youth. At the age of fifteen, he penned an essay envisioning himself as "General de Gaulle" leading the French Army to victory over Germany in 1930. He viewed the army as a unique institution capable of uniting the entirety of French society.

CAREER RECORD Served in World War I, where he was wounded several times.

Held various military and diplomatic positions in the interwar period.

Became a vocal critic of French political and military leadership.

Led the Free French Forces during World War II, rallying resistance against Nazi occupation.

Served as Prime Minister and then as the first President of the Fifth Republic of France from 1959 to 1969.

APPEARANCE Charles de Gaulle possessed a striking and memorable physical appearance. Exceptionally tall, standing at 6'4" to 6'5" (196 cm), he was often nicknamed "the great asparagus" during his time at the military academy. His towering height and slender build made him instantly recognizable in any crowd.

De Gaulle's facial features were equally distinctive, characterized by a high forehead, a prominent nose often described as being in the "Cyrano de Bergerac class," and hooded eyes. This combination resulted in an imposing and statuesque appearance, often described as lofty and even glacially remote, which contributed to his leadership style.

De Gaulle carried himself with a particular bearing. He walked with a very straight, stiff, and solemn gait, often described as "moving his own statue." His demeanor was frequently perceived as aloof and haughty. This unique combination of physical traits and demeanor significantly contributed to de Gaulle's commanding presence and his ability to project authority throughout his military and political career.

Wartime portrait, 1942

FASHION De Gaulle favored practical and military-style attire, often wearing his military uniform or simple suits.

CHARACTER He was strong-willed, determined, and charismatic.  A deeply patriotic individual with a firm belief in the importance of French sovereignty and independence.

SPEAKING VOICE De Gaulle had a powerful and resonant voice, which he used to great effect in his speeches, such as his June 18, 1940 speech, known as the "Appeal of 18 June," A pivotal moment in French history, delivered at a critical juncture during World War II, this speech marked the beginning of the French Resistance movement and established de Gaulle as its leader. "

SENSE OF HUMOUR Charles de Gaulle, known for his serious demeanor and imposing presence, occasionally displayed a dry wit and sarcastic humor. For instance, when asked about his opinion of politicians, de Gaulle quipped, "Since a politician never believes what he says, he is surprised when others believe him."

RELATIONSHIPS Charles de Gaulle married Yvonne Vendroux on April 7, 1921, in Calais, France. The wedding consisted of two ceremonies: a civil ceremony held on April 6th at the Calais town hall, followed by a religious ceremony at the Notre Dame de Calais church on April 7th. The wedding was a significant social event in Calais, as the Vendroux family were prominent entrepreneurs and respected members of the community. At the time of their marriage, Charles de Gaulle was a captain in the French Army.

The couple's courtship began in 1920, following a tea arranged by mutual family friends. Their first date involved attending a painting exhibition at the Grand Palais. De Gaulle proposed to Yvonne on November 11, 1920. When expressing his joy about the marriage, de Gaulle humorously referred to "marrying the biscuits of Vendroux," a playful allusion to his wife's family's successful biscuit-making business.

Yvonne provided unwavering support to Charles throughout his military and political career. They had a long and enduring marriage, welcoming three children: Philippe, Élisabeth, and Anne.

Yvonne De Gaulle. German Federal Archives

MONEY AND FAME Charles de Gaulle was known for his personal austerity and indifference to material wealth. Despite his fame and powerful position as President of France, he lived a notably modest lifestyle.  During his years out of power, he lived on a colonel's meager pension. This frugality stood in stark contrast to the lifestyles of some other political leaders of his time and successors.

De Gaulle's fame and popularity fluctuated throughout his career. While his leadership of the Free French Forces during World War II significantly boosted his popularity, his approval ratings as President varied. Studies have revealed unexpected patterns in his support across different regions of France. His leadership was tested during key events like the Algerian independence crisis, but he consistently maintained majority support. However, he faced a stronger-than-expected challenge in the 1965 presidential election, winning only on the second ballot. The May 1968 protests further challenged his leadership, though he subsequently won a snap election with an increased majority.

De Gaulle's relationship with fame was complex. He understood the ephemeral nature of popularity and often prioritized what he believed to be right for France over short-term political gains. His approach to leadership and politics was often described as romantic or prophetic, focused on a grand vision for France rather than immediate popularity. 

After his death, de Gaulle's legacy continued to exert a profound influence on French politics. Many French political parties and leaders have claimed a Gaullist legacy, and numerous streets and monuments in France and elsewhere have been dedicated to his memory.

FOOD AND DRINK Charles de Gaulle had relatively simple tastes in food and drink. For family meals, he preferred traditional French fare, often enjoying dishes like leg of lamb and fish. Sundays were typically reserved for family meals after church, shared with his children and grandchildren.

De Gaulle enjoyed drinking Champagne, though he was not an excessive drinker. Champagne Drappier was his preferred brand. 

While grand multi-course feasts were served for state dinners and official functions, de Gaulle preferred simpler fare for his personal meals. He would often discuss the menu with his wife, Madame de Gaulle, who would then convey his preferences to the chef.

MUSIC AND ARTS While not explicitly known as a music enthusiast, de Gaulle demonstrated an understanding of the power of cultural symbols. During the liberation of Paris in 1944, he led an impromptu parade and instinctively led the crowd in singing "La Marseillaise" a cappella when no band was available. He described himself as a "man of culture" rather than solely a military or political figure.

De Gaulle recognized the importance of the arts in political and social movements. The Historial Charles de Gaulle museum in Paris includes sections dedicated to cultural developments during his presidency, such as the "Trente Glorieuses" period and the events of May 1968, highlighting his awareness of the interplay between culture and politics.

LITERATURE Charles de Gaulle was a voracious reader throughout his life. He developed a deep appreciation for philosophical works, particularly those of Bergson, Péguy, and Barrès. He also delved into the works of German philosophers like Nietzsche, Kant, and Goethe, and studied the writings of ancient Greek thinkers, notably Plato. He also admired the prose of Chateaubriand.

De Gaulle was not only a reader but also a prolific writer. He began writing in his early teens, initially focusing on poetry. His family even financed the private publication of a one-act verse play he authored in his youth. Later in his career, he authored several books on military theory and history, including The Edge of the Sword (1932) and The Army of the Future (1934). 

His three-volume memoir, Mémoires de Guerre (War Memoirs), reads like a blend of history book and personal epic, offering his perspective on the events of World War II and beyond. The style, often referred to as lofty and self-referential, cemented his image as both a chronicler and a self-mythologizer.

NATURE De Gaulle had a strong connection to the French countryside, especially his home in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises.

PETS Charles de Gaulle shared a notable bond with his pet cat, Gris-Gris, a blue (silver-grey) Chartreux breed with the pedigree name Ringo de Balmalon. De Gaulle affectionately nicknamed him "Gris-Gris," a clever play on words that not only described the cat's color but also alluded to an African lucky charm.

Gris-Gris became de Gaulle's devoted companion during his second term as President of France. The cat was known to follow de Gaulle from room to room, a characteristic trait of the Chartreux breed, which tends to bond closely with one person. Despite initially preferring dogs, de Gaulle was reportedly captivated by Gris-Gris.

Gris-Gris often became a topic of conversation between de Gaulle and his Minister of Cultural Affairs, André Malraux, during Council of Ministers meetings. De Gaulle once remarked, "Kittens play, Cats meditate," perhaps inspired by his observations of Gris-Gris. (1)

Following de Gaulle's death, Gris-Gris continued to reside at the de Gaulle's personal residence, La Boiserrie. The housekeeper noted that Gris-Gris's behavior changed after de Gaulle's passing, suggesting a strong and meaningful bond between the two. 

HOBBIES AND SPORTS He relaxed by reading and studying history, particularly military strategy.

De Gaulle enjoyed family-style meals after church on Sundays with his children and grandchildren

SCIENCE AND MATHS De Gaulle did not focus heavily on science but respected technological advancements, particularly in defense.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Charles de Gaulle's philosophy and theology were deeply intertwined, rooted in his devout Catholic faith and fervent French patriotism. His worldview was profoundly shaped by his Catholic faith, which he accepted without reservation. His spirituality provided him with courage during the horrors of World War I and remained a source of personal strength throughout his life. His private writings reveal a deep engagement with religious thought, featuring numerous citations from Pascal, Augustine, and Scripture.

De Gaulle's intellectual formation drew from a diverse range of sources. He was influenced by French Catholic poets and philosophers, particularly Charles Péguy, and his thinking was shaped by "social Catholicism," which sought to reconcile social justice with individual liberty. He admired classical thinkers and was a voracious reader of philosophy and literature.

De Gaulle's philosophy intertwined his faith with a profound sense of French nationalism. He viewed France as having a "mystical vocation" to bring liberty and enlightenment to humanity. His patriotism was infused with a spiritual dimension, perceiving France's destiny as part of a divine plan. He believed in the eternal struggle between nations as a driving force in history.

De Gaulle's political thought was characterized by a commitment to both grandeur and moderation in politics. He rejected ideology as the foundation for modern nation-states, emphasizing the importance of character and moral courage in leadership. While deeply religious, de Gaulle's theology was personal and not overtly political. He saw Christ's sacrifice as central to universal history and viewed human suffering and dignity through a Christian lens. His faith informed his moral stance against totalitarianism and injustice.

De Gaulle's philosophy and theology created a unique blend of Catholic humanism, French patriotism, and political pragmatism that guided his actions as a military leader and statesman throughout his life.

POLITICS After the war, de Gaulle briefly became the head of the provisional government, though he resigned in 1946 when the Fourth Republic turned out to be an unmanageable mess of political squabbling. He spent a dozen years in semi-retirement, occasionally emerging to remind people he was still taller than anyone else in the room and had ideas for saving France.

By 1958, with the country spiraling into chaos over the Algerian War, de Gaulle made a dramatic comeback. The French Army, poised to take drastic action, effectively said, “Get de Gaulle, or we’re marching on Paris.” Parliament quickly installed him as Prime Minister, and he drafted a new constitution that gave the president sweeping powers—naturally, he became the first president of the Fifth Republic in 1959.

De Gaulle’s time as president was a whirlwind of bold policies and equally bold exits. He ended France's colonial war in Algeria, which earned him both praise and death threats. One particularly cinematic assassination attempt in 1962 inspired the thriller The Day of the Jackal—though de Gaulle, characteristically, survived unscathed.

He withdrew France from NATO’s integrated command, reportedly prompting U.S. Secretary of State Dean Rusk to quip, “Does this include the bodies of American soldiers buried in France?” De Gaulle, one imagines, replied with a Gallic shrug.

His foreign policy wasn’t exactly warm and fuzzy. He twice vetoed British attempts to join the European Economic Community and made headlines on July 24, 1967 during a visit to Canada. De Gaulle declared to a crowd of over 100,000 in Montreal: "Vive le Québec libre!" ("Long live free Quebec!"). The statement, interpreted as support for Quebec independence, delighted French-speaking Canadians and horrified just about everyone else.

Domestically, he presided over a period of incredible economic growth known as the "Trente Glorieuses." But his leadership style—a mix of paternalism and unshakable self-assurance—drew criticism, culminating in the May 1968 protests that brought France to a standstill. De Gaulle briefly fled the country, regrouped, and returned to restore order, but the cracks in his presidency were showing. A 1969 referendum defeat finally prompted his resignation.

SCANDAL His statement "Vive le Québec libre!" during a 1967 visit to Canada created international controversy.

A failed attempt to assassinate Charles de Gaulle On August 22, 1962 provided the inspiration for the book, The Day Of The Jackal by Frederick Forsyth

The May 1968 protests in France were a period of widespread civil unrest that brought the country to the brink of collapse. The government, led by Charles de Gaulle, found itself in a precarious situation as protests escalated and strikes paralyzed the nation. Fearing for the stability of his regime, de Gaulle made the controversial decision to temporarily leave the country, seeking refuge in Germany.

MILITARY RECORD De Gaulle’s military career began in 1913 when he joined the French Army, probably with the confidence of a man who’d already mapped out his future statues and airport namesakes. By World War I, he was already irritating superiors by showing off how he knew things they didn’t. Captured during the war, he attempted to escape multiple times, proving early on that stubbornness would be a defining trait.

By the 1930s, de Gaulle traded his sword for a pen, scribbling critiques of France's military strategy and advocating for a modern, mechanized army. His superiors, naturally, ignored him. It would only take a catastrophic global conflict for them to admit he might have had a point.

When Germany invaded France in 1940, de Gaulle was promoted to brigadier general, a title he wore like a custom-tailored trench coat. But when France decided to surrender, de Gaulle promptly fled to England, where he gave his famous "Appeal of 18 June" speech, rallying the French Resistance. Admittedly, few people actually heard the speech live, but it later became one of those legendary moments everyone claimed to have witnessed.

During the war, de Gaulle organized the Free French Forces, which was essentially a government in exile with big ambitions and modest resources. He also maintained an awkward but functional relationship with Winston Churchill, who had his own way with words (and cigars). De Gaulle returned to France in triumph in 1944, singing "La Marseillaise" at the liberation of Paris like it was his personal anthem—which, in a way, it was.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS De Gaulle remained robust throughout much of his life, although his later years saw a decline in health.

HOMES He lived in a country house in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises, which for the first two years lacked even running water. It was the only property he ever owned and became a symbol of his connection to rural France. 

Even when residing in the Elysée Palace as President, he had a meter installed to pay for his and his wife's personal electricity consumption.

TRAVEL De Gaulle traveled extensively, both during his military service and as a statesman.

DEATH Charles de Gaulle died on November 9, 1970, at his home in Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, France. His death, attributed to old age, was marked by his final poignant saying, "Old Age is the Shipwreck of Life."

De Gaulle had specific wishes for his funeral. He requested a simple burial in his home village of Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, declining a state funeral and any monuments erected in his honor. He wished to be buried beside his daughter Anne, who had tragically passed away in 1948 at the age of 20.

Despite de Gaulle's desire for simplicity, an official memorial service was held at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris on November 12. It was the biggest such event in French history and a national mourning was declared. The ceremony was attended by French authorities and numerous world leaders, including a U.S. delegation led by President Richard Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon.

De Gaulle's body was transported from La Boisserie, his country home, to Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises. His remains were covered with the French flag and placed on a turretless Panhard armored vehicle for the journey.

The burial in Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises was a more intimate affair. De Gaulle was interred in the local cemetery beside his daughter Anne. His oak coffin, costing only seventy-two dollars, was carried by villagers, including a butcher, a cheesemaker, and a farmhand. The burial was witnessed by his companions from the liberation of France and the inhabitants of the village.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA De Gaulle’s life and leadership have been depicted in books, films, and documentaries. 

De Gaulle (2020): This French biographical film stars Lambert Wilson as de Gaulle and focuses on a crucial period in 1940 when de Gaulle fled to London to lead the Free French Forces. It juxtaposes his political struggles with his personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife, Yvonne, and their daughter, Anne, who had Down syndrome.

The Crown (2016): De Gaulle appears in an episode depicting Queen Elizabeth II's early reign. His complicated relationship with Winston Churchill and his pride in French independence are highlighted.

Numerous documentaries have explored de Gaulle's life, focusing on his military career, presidency, and contributions to France's post-war identity.

De Gaulle’s life has inspired countless biographies, including Julian Jackson’s A Certain Idea of France: The Life of Charles de Gaulle (2018), which is regarded as one of the definitive accounts of his life and philosophy.

 French political cartoons and satirical outlets frequently depicted de Gaulle as a towering, almost godlike figure, often exaggerating his aloofness and self-importance.

Shows like Monty Python's Flying Circus and other British programs occasionally parodied de Gaulle, often emphasizing his strained relations with Churchill or his imperious air.

De Gaulle’s image—tall, commanding, often with his trademark kepi—is a frequent subject of public art across France. Paris's Charles de Gaulle-Etoile monument, near the Arc de Triomphe, is an enduring symbol of his legacy.

ACHIEVEMENTS Led the Free French during World War II.

Established the Fifth Republic of France in 1958.

Declared "Europe, from the Atlantic to the Urals" as his vision for the continent.

Oversaw France’s withdrawal from NATO’s integrated military command.

Inspired the French Resistance with his 1940 speech.

Ensured France’s nuclear capability and political independence.

Memorialized by the Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, opened in 1974.

Source Chartreux Cat Club UK