The Great Leaders - de Gaulle - Susan Banfield

A Biography of the Man Who Led France to Greatness

Charles de Gaulle was a towering figure in 20th-century history. As the leader of the Free French during World War II, he rallied his countrymen to resist Nazi occupation and helped to liberate France. After the war, he served as president of France for two terms, during which time he oversaw the country's reconstruction and modernization.

In this comprehensive and insightful biography, Susan Banfield tells the story of de Gaulle's life and career. She draws on a wealth of sources, including de Gaulle's own writings and speeches, as well as interviews with his friends, family, and colleagues. The result is a vivid and nuanced portrait of a complex and fascinating man.

De Gaulle's Early Life and Career

Charles de Gaulle was born in Lille, France, in 1890. He was the son of a history professor and a devout Catholic mother. De Gaulle showed early promise as a student, and he went on to attend the prestigious École Militaire de Saint-Cyr. After graduating, he served in the French army during World War I.

De Gaulle distinguished himself as a soldier, and he was quickly promoted through the ranks. He was wounded several times in battle, and he was eventually captured by the Germans. He spent the rest of the war as a prisoner of war.

After the war, de Gaulle returned to France and continued his military career. He rose to the rank of general, and he served as the commander of the French army during the early years of World War II.

De Gaulle and the Free French

In 1940, France was defeated by Germany. De Gaulle refused to accept the defeat, and he fled to London. There, he established the Free French, a government-in-exile that continued to fight against the Nazis.

De Gaulle led the Free French from London for the rest of the war. He rallied his countrymen to resist the occupation, and he helped to organize the French Resistance. In 1944, the Allies invaded Normandy, and de Gaulle returned to France. He led the Free French forces in the liberation of Paris, and he became the provisional president of France.

De Gaulle as President of France

De Gaulle served as president of France for two terms, from 1958 to 1969. During his time in office, he oversaw the country's reconstruction and modernization. He also led France to independence from Algeria, and he established the Fifth Republic, which is the current government of France.

De Gaulle was a controversial figure, but he was also a great leader. He was a man of vision and courage, and he was dedicated to the cause of France. He left a lasting legacy on France, and he is still revered as one of the country's greatest leaders.

Why You Should Read This Book

The Great Leaders - de Gaulle is a must-read for anyone interested in history, leadership, or France. Susan Banfield's biography is a comprehensive and insightful account of de Gaulle's life and career. It is a fascinating story of a complex and fascinating man who left a lasting legacy on the world.

If you are looking for a book that will inspire you and make you think, then I highly recommend The Great Leaders - de Gaulle. It is a book that you will not soon forget.

Order Your Copy Today!

The Great Leaders - de Gaulle is available now at your favorite bookstore. Order your copy today and start reading the story of one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century.