Charles de Gaulle: How He Rose to Power

No one could have predicted that Charles de Gaulle would come to power during one of the darkest periods in French history. Yet, despite his humble beginnings, his actions would secure his place as l'homme du destin, or the man of destiny, in the annals of French history.

De Gaulle's Early Advocacy Against Nazi Occupation

De Gaulle's rise to power is not merely a result of his stand against Nazi occupation. While it's true that his resistance to Nazism and his refusal to collaborate with the occupiers played a significant role, it was his strategic vision and leadership that set him apart.

The Allied Stand and the Fall of France

During World War II, de Gaulle's position as Acting Brigadier General was bolstered by his actions as a tank division commander in an attempt to contain the German breakthrough at Sedan. His hero status was further affirmed by French Commander-in-Chief Maxime Weygand, who praised him for "saving the honor of France." Despite his success, Weygand ultimately succumbed to defeatism, a sentiment shared by many French leaders at the time.

De Gaulle's Call to Arms

De Gaulle's commitment to the fight was unwavering. He advocated for the French and British forces to occupy the Breton peninsula, serving as a stronghold from which the Third Republic could continue its struggle. His vision was clear and ambitious, but the pervasive sense of defeatism within the government made carrying out his plan difficult.

The Turning Point

The resignation of Prime Minister Paul Reynaud and the subsequent rise of Marshal Philippe Petain marked a pivotal moment. De Gaulle, though hampered by his low standing in the previous government, saw an opportunity. He emerged as a voice of resistance, challenging the legitimacy of the Petain government and urging French citizens to continue the fight.

The Battle Against Recognition

De Gaulle's actions were met with recognition and controversy. His broadcasts from London in June 1940, calling for French forces to join the Allied fight, were seen as acts of insubordination. His commission as brigadier general was revoked, and he was retired as a colonel by the Petain government, a significant blow to his career at the time.

Anti-De Gaulle Sentiment

The U.S. government, led by President Roosevelt, initially viewed de Gaulle with suspicion. They saw him as a nuisance and an unnecessary distraction from the larger geopolitical landscape. Roosevelt believed in working with the technically neutral Vichy regime to undermine German strategic objectives, cultivating someone else for the role of unofficial leader of the fight against France, Henri Giraud. However, this decision proved to be a strategic miscalculation.

De Gaulle's Unique Qualities and Leadership

De Gaulle's rise to power was due to his unique combination of military vision and political acumen. His stellar record as a military thinker, coupled with his understanding of French society and the ability to negotiate with various factions, made him a compelling leader. Furthermore, his background as a devout Catholic and his family's history as Dreyfusards (supporters of Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish officer falsely accused of treason) allowed him to appeal to both left- and right-wing elements of French society.

A Hero of Destiny

De Gaulle's decision to leave France and establish a fighting presence in England preserved the honor of a France aligned with the democratic forces of the West. His actions were a testament to his unwavering commitment to France and his vision for the country's future. Over time, de Gaulle became the effective head of a French government-in-exile and the presumptive leader of post-war France.

Ultimately, de Gaulle's foresight and leadership during the darkest days of World War II secured his status as one of the most consequential figures in French history, alongside Charlemagne, Joan of Arc, and Napoleon.