Charles de Gaulle & the French resistance : a case study on the legitimacy and contention of a resistance and its leader

Abstract

Charles de Gaulle, one of the most notable leaders of the French history, rose to power outside democratic processes. When he departed for London in June 1940 to continue the opposition against Germany, de Gaulle was not an elected official nor did he hold a significant governmental post. He was also lacking public support, but nevertheless managed to become the symbol of French resistance and emerge as the leader of post-war France. Years later, he again became the head of his country outside democratic processes, yet history does not question his legitimacy as a leader. This master’s thesis looks into the foundation of de Gaulle’s legitimacy, and attempts to explain why and how he became a legitimate leader.

Four elemental themes have been identified to construe de Gaulle’s legitimacy. France’s national identity and the country’s contentious tradition provided a context for the rise of the resistance, and legitimized its actions. The crimes committed by the Vichy government resulted in the loss of its legitimacy which then provided a space for a new legitimate actor to enter the political sphere of the country. The French Resistance and its endorsement of de Gaulle enabled him to absorb some of the movement’s legitimacy, and provided him with the essential support that is necessary for any leader of a movement. Finally, charisma, de Gaulle’s own personality granted him the tools to enforce his vision for France. Together, these four elements explain his legitimacy.