Charles de Gaulle

De Gaulle lent his determination, strength, and sometimes obstinacy to France in both war and peace. His ability to inspire resistance throughout an occupied France won him a place in the hearts of the French people. He firmly believed in the importance of the presidency, and his brilliant military ability translated easily into strong political leadership. With the formation of the Fifth Republic, de Gaulle replaced a weak and constantly changing government, to which the public responded with indifference, with a stable and effective government that the French greeted with enthusiasm. His independent stance in foreign affairs gave France a strong position in a changing world.