War Memoirs (3 volumes)

Author: (French) Charles de Gaulle
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-03-01
Features: De Gaulle's War Memories recounts World War II from his perspective and that of France. The book is divided into three volumes: Volume I, The Call, covers the period from 1940 to mid-1942. Volume II, Unity, spans mid-1942 to 1944. Volume III, The Salvation, runs from August 1944 to January 1946. The descriptions in the book provide valuable insights for studying the European situation before and after World War II, particularly in France. Volume II narrates the period from July 1942, when the aggressive advance of Nazi Germany was halted, to August 1944, when De Gaulle returned to Paris with Allied forces. This was the era following the Battle of Stalingrad, when Hitler's forces were gradually defeated and ultimately collapsed. During this time, De Gaulle actively sought formal recognition for the French Committee of National Liberation from the Allies while maintaining control of the domestic situation. The key feature of Volume II is its further exposure of the tensions between France and Britain, especially France and the United States. In War Memories, General De Gaulle represents a true Frenchman, one who, despite a history of defeat and surrender, retains his value. The book is written in the first person, detailing the progression of World War II from his perspective, with a focus on themes such as France's refusal to cooperate with the enemy. It is worth noting that in this book, De Gaulle expresses his personal views on communism, the Communist Party, colonies, and other issues, believing readers will understand his way of thinking and grasp these matters correctly.