Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Charles de Gaulle: A French general and statesman who rose to prominence as the leader of the Free French Forces during World War II, opposing the Nazi occupation and the Vichy government. He later became the founding President of the French Fifth Republic.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • General de Gaulle led the Free French forces from London.
  • The policies of General de Gaulle shaped post-war France.
  • Many streets in France are named after General de Gaulle.

Advanced Usage

• "Gaullism": A political ideology based on the ideas and actions of Charles de Gaulle, emphasizing French national independence, a strong executive, and a unique role for France in world affairs.
  • Gaullism continues to influence French conservative politics.

Variants and Related Words

• De Gaulle: A common shortened reference.
• Charles de Gaulle: The full name.
• President de Gaulle: Referring to his role as President of France (1959-1969).
• Free France: The government-in-exile led by de Gaulle during WWII.

Synonyms

• French statesman
• French leader
• Resistance leader

Related Phrases

• "A certain idea of France": A phrase famously used by de Gaulle in his memoirs to describe his profound, personal vision for the nation.
  • He was motivated by "a certain idea of France."

Noun

1. French general and statesman who became very popular during World War II as the leader of the Free French forces in exile (1890-1970)