Why Was General de Gaulle So Disrespectful to Allied Commanders During World War II?

During World War II, General Charles de Gaulle, the leader of the Free French Forces, faced a complex and challenging situation. Understanding his actions and demeanor requires a deeper look into the historical context and the significance of French national pride and interests. De Gaulle's behavior towards Allied commanders was not merely a result of personal affability but rather a reflection of political and strategic necessities.

The Vulnerable Position of the Free French Forces

de Gaulle was acutely aware of the precarious position that the Free French Forces found themselves in. The group was economically and logistically dependent on the Allies, which led to a situation where their interests were somewhat secondary to those of the Entente powers. De Gaulle knew that he had to be very assertive and strong-willed if he was to ensure that French interests were not overlooked in the post-war settlement. This assertiveness often translated into what some might perceive as disrespect or rudeness towards Allied commanders. His actions were driven by the need to protect and promote French interests, a principle that he held in the highest regard.

French National Pride and Interests

The French have long been known for their distinctive sense of national pride and ideals, which often manifests in a strong desire for sovereignty and independence. This is particularly evident in the history of World War II, where the French did not proactively seek war with Germany but were drawn into it by Germany's efforts to annex them. The French people, including de Gaulle, had a deep understanding of what Germany represented to them—not just a military threat, but a potential subjugation of their culture and their way of life.

Their position was further complicated by the strategic bombing of France by Allied forces. Despite the ineffectiveness of the bombing campaign, which Eisenhower himself considered suspending, the French remained determined to fight on. This resolve was fueled by a desire to avoid the atrocities that could have been inflicted by the German occupying forces. The war was, in essence, a fight for the soul of France—its culture, its values, and its people.

Moreover, the war was deeply personal for de Gaulle. He had a strong conviction that France deserved to play a central role in the post-war world, and his insistence on assertive conduct towards Allied commanders was rooted in this desire. He believed that France's contributions and the sacrifices of its people should be recognized and rewarded in the peace negotiations.

The Strategic Context: Assertiveness and Survival

The strategic bombing of France by the Allies was a contentious and controversial decision. It is often argued that these bombings were ineffective at best, and harmful to civilians at worst. General George Patton, among others, argued that the bombing was wasteful and caused more harm than good. Dwight Eisenhower, who later became the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces during the D-Day invasion, was particularly critical of the bombings. In a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Eisenhower wrote: 'We have been unable to obtain convincing evidence of the success of the air strategic offensive... There is danger that much of the devastation is beyond the power of recovery. We must do a better job or ask for something less than absolute dependence on the Air Force.'

Furthermore, de Gaulle was acutely aware of the sensitive balance he had to maintain with the Allies. On one hand, he needed their support for his operations and freedom. On the other hand, he wanted to ensure that his country's interests were not overshadowed. His assertiveness and sometimes perceived rudeness were, therefore, a calculated approach to protect French interests.

Conclusion

In summary, General de Gaulle's approach towards Allied commanders during World War II was multifaceted and driven by a deep-seated commitment to French national interests and pride. His assertiveness was a necessary step to ensure that French voices were heard in the post-war settlement, even in the face of economic and logistical dependencies on the Allies. Understanding this context provides valuable insights into the complexities of international relations and the often tenuous balance between national interests and global cooperation during wartime.