De Gaulle -- Biographies of World Famous People

Author: Zhang Jialin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-10-01
Features: Charles de Gaulle was another great, outstanding, and legendary hero in French history, following the great conqueror Napoleon. De Gaulle's main historical period was World War II. His life was dedicated to the independence, glory, and great cause of France. He considered it his duty and honor to serve France. For France, after France surrendered to Nazi Germany, he stepped forward to lead Free France, Fighting France, and the French people in resisting the Axis powers; and when he realized France no longer needed him, he quietly retired. For France, he devoted his entire life and talent to securing freedom, independence, and an undeniable international status for France. Yet he twice refused the retirement pension and housing that should have been enjoyed by the President of the Republic, always carrying a checkbook to cover personal expenses. He was strong-willed, tenacious, possessed extraordinary perseverance and abundant energy. He made Churchill step back three steps, and he stood his ground against Roosevelt and Eisenhower. He did not seek fame, refusing any honorary titles or medals, and on his tombstone after his death, only the following words were inscribed: "Charles de Gaulle (1890~1970)." He saved France's honor and, in turn, saved France itself. France and de Gaulle were essentially synonymous in the 20th century. He was the soul of the French nation, and both his comrades and enemies believed that he was a historical giant!