Author Description

Originally published in three separate volumes covering three distinct periods, this single edition encompasses all the personal writings by one of this century's most prominent generals and statesmen from the fall of France in 1940 to the aftermath of World War II in 1946. The first section, "The Call to Honor," recounts the confusion and despair triggered by Hitler's blitzkrieg invasion of France. The second section, "Unity," describes de Gaulle's struggles to rally the Free French in Africa and in underground movements throughout Europe, his bitter conflict with the Vichy puppet regime ruling occupied France, and his cooperation with the Allied powers. "Salvation," the final installment, chronicles the turning of the tide of war against Nazi Germany, de Gaulle's triumphant return to France, and the reincarnation of the French Republic as a major international presence. - Back cover.