The Cult of Charles de Gaulle Is Growing.

The article examines the enduring and expanding influence of Charles de Gaulle's philosophy of national greatness, highlighting its adoption by diverse political figures and movements across France and internationally. De Gaulle, who led Free France during World War II and served as president from 1959 to 1968, emphasized national sovereignty, state-driven modernization, and an independent geopolitical role, notably withdrawing France from NATO's military command and developing a nuclear deterrent. Contemporary leaders such as Emmanuel Macron, Marine Le Pen, Vladimir Putin, Viktor Orban, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance draw on de Gaulle's ideas to varying degrees, reflecting a global resurgence of Gaullism amid shifting international dynamics. The article also contrasts de Gaulle's moral stature and context with those of modern imitators, noting challenges in applying his vision today.