logo

Video encyclopedia

24/05/1968 French riots force Charles de Gaulle to "Back me or sack me" ultimatum

6:09

Paris Riots (1968)

1:41

France Referendum - De Gaulle Resigns (1969)

Although reelected President in 1965, he appeared likely to lose power amid widespread protests by students and workers in May 1968, but survived the crisis and won an election with an increased majority in the National Assembly. De Gaulle resigned in 1969 after losing a referendum in which he proposed more decentralization.