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De Gaule's Foreign Policy
De Gaulle followed an independent foreign policy, pursuing European integration as well as closer relations with the Communist bloc and the Third World.
He blocked British entry into the Common Market; developed an independent nuclear force, refusing to sign nuclear test-ban and nonproliferation treaties; pursued a historic rapprochement with Germany; recognized the People's Republic of China; established a leading French role in the former French colonies of Africa; and withdrew French forces from the NATO military command.
Reelected president in 1965, after a runoff election against the Socialist-Communist alliance candidate François Mitterrand, de Gaulle continued his independent policy until student riots in early 1968 provoked police repression, which led to further popular support for the students, especially in Paris.
De Gaulle dissolved the National Assembly and, in an emotional campaign on behalf of national stability, won a large electoral majority.
In 1969, however, following minor political reverses, de Gaulle resigned as president.
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