#224 Charles de Gaulle

In this episode, the host delves into the complex and multifaceted life of Charles de Gaulle, exploring his paradoxical nature as a conservative revolutionary and a solitary leader with an unwavering commitment to France. De Gaulle's story is one of dogged perseverance and tenacity, from his early military career and prophetic warnings about mechanized warfare to his exile and eventual return as a national hero. Despite facing numerous assassination attempts and political opposition, including from allies like Churchill and Roosevelt, de Gaulle's singular vision for a free and independent France never wavered, ultimately leading to his triumphant return to Paris. His ability to inspire confidence in the French people, even in the darkest times, cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in French history. The episode draws from Julian Jackson's detailed biography of de Gaulle, highlighting the general's strategic foresight, his use of radio to rally support, and his astute understanding of the importance of public sentiment in leadership.

• Charles de Gaulle has been admired by a range of figures, including Henry Kissinger and Osama bin Laden.
• He has been compared to various French and non-French historical figures, indicating his complex nature.
• De Gaulle embodied contradictions: he was a soldier against his own army, a conservative with revolutionary speech, and a passionate man who struggled to express emotion.

"De Gaulle's admirers have included both Henry Kissinger and Osama bin Laden. He has been compared by admirers and detractors to french figures as diverse as Charlemagne, Joan of Arc, Henry VI, Louis XIV and Napoleon, and to non french figures as diverse as Bismarck, Mussolini, Mao, Castro and Jesus Christ."

The quote highlights the wide spectrum of individuals who have admired or compared themselves to de Gaulle, reflecting his multifaceted persona and influence.

• Charles de Gaulle's presence is felt throughout France in street names, monuments, and literature.
• A 2010 opinion poll ranked de Gaulle as the most important figure in French history, surpassing Napoleon.
• De Gaulle was a polarizing figure, with many assassination attempts against him due to his divisive nature.
• His involvement in France's 20th-century civil wars and refusal to accept defeat after the 1940 German invasion made him a national symbol.

"Today, Charles de Gaulle is everywhere. In memories, in street names, in monuments, in bookshops. At the most recent count, over 3600 localities had a public space, a street, an avenue, a square, a roundabout named after him."

This quote emphasizes de Gaulle's enduring presence and the honor bestowed upon him within France, signifying his importance to French national identity.

• Speaker A invested significant time studying Charles de Gaulle, including listening to a 35-hour audiobook, reading an 800-page biography, and watching a recent movie.
• The study of de Gaulle was inspired by a quote from Arthur Rock, who compared Henry Singleton's traits to de Gaulle's.
• Prominent figures like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger praised Singleton, which led Speaker A to explore de Gaulle's life to understand the comparison.
• Speaker A views the study of historical figures like de Gaulle as part of a larger discussion on entrepreneurship.

"This is probably the episode that took the most amount of time and preparation. So I listened to the audiobook before I read this book previously, I told you I listened to the audiobook. I said it was 60 hours. It's not 60 hours, it's 35 hours long. And then I read the book. The book is 800 pages long."

The quote reflects Speaker A's dedication to thoroughly understanding de Gaulle's life and the extensive effort put into researching him for insights into leadership and entrepreneurship.

• De Gaulle crafted a myth around himself, using radio as a tool to reach and influence people across Europe.
• His defiance against the French armistice with Hitler and subsequent broadcasts from London solidified his status as a symbol of French resistance.
• De Gaulle's persistence and refusal to accept defeat played a central role in his rise as a national hero.

"One of de Gaulle's greatest achievements was the myth that he constructed around himself. And that myth was launched by the radio."

This quote signifies the importance of narrative and communication in building de Gaulle's legacy, illustrating how he used contemporary media to shape public perception.

• De Gaulle's personality and beliefs showed remarkable consistency throughout his life.
• His famous sentence, "All of my life I've had a certain idea of France," encapsulates his unwavering vision for his country.
• This steadfastness is akin to the philosophies of successful founders like Jeff Bezos and Steve Jobs, who also consistently communicated their visions.

"There seems to be a granite like consistency to his personality and beliefs. The most famous sentence he ever wrote is, all of my life I've had a certain idea of France."

The quote captures the core tenet of de Gaulle's identity and leadership—his unchanging and profound belief in a grand vision for France.

• De Gaulle's father had a significant impact on him, instilling a love for French history and the importance of intellectual work.
• By the age of 10, de Gaulle was determined to pursue a military career, influenced by his father's teachings and his own fascination with war.

"My father was a man of thought, culture, tradition. He was imbued with a sense of the dignity of France. He made me discover its history..."

This quote reflects the profound influence de Gaulle's father had on shaping his values and aspirations, which would later define his career and impact on history.

• De Gaulle's indifference to physical danger was evident from his early military encounters during World War I.
• His experiences in World War I, including being wounded and becoming a prisoner of war, solidified his belief in the need for military innovation and the importance of tenacity.

"Nothing dented his belief in victory. There's just no quit. There is no other option. I have a single purpose. I'm going to win. France is going to be glorious, or I'm going to die trying."

This quote encapsulates de Gaulle's unwavering determination and belief in victory, which remained a defining characteristic throughout his military and political life.

• The individual in question experienced extreme physical and psychological trauma in battle, including being shot, bayoneted, and hit by a grenade.
• They endured a deep depression and a sense of humiliation during their time as a prisoner of war.
• Despite surviving, they were left with a lasting melancholic disposition and a profound sense of regret for not playing a larger role in the war.

"Later, a grenade exploded, literally under my nose, and I lost consciousness." "Endlessly, he returned to an inexpressible sadness caused by the humiliation of being a prisoner." "At this moment, I am gripped by a grief so bitter and so deep that I do not think I will ever again experience anything like it."

• The quotes illustrate the individual's direct experiences of violence and capture during the war, as well as the psychological impact of these events, particularly the deep sadness and grief associated with being a prisoner.

• Upon release from the prisoner of war camp, the individual reflects on their life and contributions to the war.
• There is a mix of joy and bitterness, with a prevailing sense of regret for not having a more significant impact.
• This regret is seen as a driving force for future thought and action.

"The great joy I share with you is mixed for me, more bitter than ever, with the indescribable regret at not having played a greater role." "Let it at least serve as a spur to think and act better."

• The quotes reveal the individual's complex emotions upon returning home and the desire to use their regret as motivation to improve and make a difference in the future.

• The individual continues to serve in the army, gaining experience but suffering from depressive states.
• Their volatile mood swings and pessimism were noted by their aides and became part of their mythos.
• They were known for their temperament and the ability to overcome despair.

"His aides would despair at what they called, at his temperament, his volatile and unpredictable mood swings, his sudden descent into the blackest pessimism."

• The quote highlights the individual's mood fluctuations and how those close to them perceived these changes, emphasizing the ongoing struggle with depression.

• The individual's story serves as a reminder of the importance of perspective during difficult times.
• Reading biographies is seen as beneficial for understanding others' experiences and gaining clarity during one's dark periods.
• The individual's life is a testament to the idea that one can overcome adversity and achieve significant roles in history.

"The benefit being and why I think all the smartest, most productive people to ever live, all read biographies and all continue to read biographies, is because you see this play out in other people's lives and you just realize, okay, I can take a step back and realize I'm just not thinking clearly here."

• The quote suggests that learning from the experiences of others, as depicted in biographies, can provide perspective and help individuals through their own challenges.

• The individual purposely kept themselves apart from peers to foster unique and independent ideas.
• This approach to thinking and problem-solving is compared to that of Henry Singleton and other influential figures.
• The individual's aloofness and contemplative nature were both a source of intrigue and misunderstanding among peers.

"De Gaulle kept himself apart from his peers... He was not like. He purposely kept him apart from his peers, because, I don't know, he never explicitly said this, but we're prone to copy or to be influenced by the people around us and what we let in our mind."

• The quote emphasizes the individual's intentional separation from others to maintain originality in thought and to avoid undue influence, paralleling the practices of successful thinkers and leaders like Henry Singleton.

• The individual learned from historical events and applied these lessons to contemporary situations.
• They believed that a country is only defeated when it loses the will to fight, a view that shaped their perspective on France's situation in 1940.
• The individual's extensive knowledge of history informed their strategies and leadership.

"The lesson that he drew from Poland's victory was that a country is defeated only when it has lost the will to fight."

• The quote reflects the individual's belief in the psychological aspect of warfare and the importance of maintaining the will to fight as a determinant of victory or defeat.

• The individual emphasized the significance of self-belief and morale in achieving success, both in military and other endeavors.
• They admired historical figures who prioritized morale over material conditions and applied this philosophy to their own leadership.
• The individual's study of history informed their understanding of the psychological factors in warfare and business.

"He's obsessed with the importance of self belief and morale... Excellence is the capacity to take pain."

• The quote connects the individual's focus on morale and self-belief to broader concepts of excellence and perseverance, suggesting that the ability to endure hardship is a key to success.

• The individual was critical of outdated military teachings at the academy they attended.
• They were outspoken about their beliefs, even when it meant challenging respected figures and established doctrines.
• Their self-assurance and directness were seen as both strengths and sources of friction with superiors.

"What singled Gaul out was less of his contempt that he felt for his teachers than his refusal to disguise it."

• The quote illustrates the individual's willingness to openly challenge conventional wisdom, highlighting their confidence and disregard for hierarchical norms.

• The individual showed a tender and affectionate side in their relationship with their daughter, who had Down syndrome.
• They chose to keep their daughter at home, which was uncommon at the time, demonstrating deep familial love and commitment.
• This aspect of their life revealed a softer, more human side that contrasted with their public persona.

"Birth was a trial for my wife and myself. But believe me, Anne is my joy and my strength."

• The quote reveals the individual's deep affection for their daughter and the strength they derived from her, showcasing a personal dimension often concealed from the public eye.

• The individual authored works on leadership, emphasizing the need for adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking.
• They criticized the prevailing political and diplomatic trends in France, advocating for a more proactive and realistic approach to potential conflicts.
• The individual foresaw the likelihood of future wars and urged preparedness based on a realistic assessment of human nature and history.

"Leadership is a solitary exercise of the will."

• The quote encapsulates the individual's philosophy of leadership as an independent and willful endeavor, reflecting their belief in the importance of personal conviction and action.

• General Patton's strategy was to constantly advance rather than hold positions.
• Patton's approach contrasted with the defensive strategies derived from World War I.
• The focus was on taking the fight to the enemy, not waiting in trenches.
• This aggressive tactic is likened to the mindset of entrepreneurs seeking rapid growth and customer acquisition.

"I don't want to get any messages saying I'm holding my positions. We're not holding a goddamn thing. We're advancing constantly and we're not interested in holding anything except the enemy's balls. We're going to hold him by his balls and we're going to kick him in the ass. We're going to kick the living shit out of him all the time."

The quote exemplifies Patton's aggressive and relentless military strategy of constant advancement rather than defensive positioning.

• De Gaulle criticized the defensive strategies of the past and advocated for a professional, technically skilled army.
• Hitler took note of de Gaulle's ideas, which influenced his Panzer tank strategy.
• De Gaulle's book, "The Army of the Future," predicted the use of such tactics and was translated with a note highlighting its prophetic nature.

"Our plan of operation is to advance and to keep on advancing."

This quote summarizes the core idea of de Gaulle's criticism of static defense, emphasizing the importance of constant movement and aggression in military strategy.

• De Gaulle admired the traits of Louis Voy, a historical figure who was realistic, flexible, and a patient planner.
• Voy's traits, as admired by de Gaulle, included a disdain for theories, a drive for reform, and a capacity for independent decision-making.
• De Gaulle saw himself in Voy, valuing leadership qualities like decisiveness, approachability, and a lack of complacency with incompetence.

"Disdaining theories he was careful not to disrupt or destroy. But as a realist, he never ceased in his efforts to reform and improve."

This quote reflects the traits that de Gaulle admired in Louis Voy and sought to emulate in his own leadership style, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and realism.

• De Gaulle believed that crowds needed to be led by those capable of harnessing their irrationality.
• He considered leadership to be a moral responsibility that directs people's faith and dreams.
• De Gaulle's leadership style was seen as incompatible with democracy due to his authoritarian and independent command.

"Men cannot do without being led any more than they can do without eating, drinking and sleeping."

De Gaulle's quote highlights his belief in the necessity of strong leadership for the functioning of society, likening it to basic human needs.

• De Gaulle foresaw the need for a rapid offensive military strategy, which was later proven correct when Germany quickly conquered France.
• He criticized the French military's focus on defense and predicted that this would lead to France's downfall.
• De Gaulle's repeated warnings and proposals for military reform were largely ignored by French leadership.

"Our military system has been exclusively built around defense. If the enemy attacks us tomorrow, I am sure we will hold out. But if he does not attack, we are reduced to almost complete impotence."

The quote from de Gaulle criticizes France's defensive military strategy and underscores the need for an offensive capability to respond to threats effectively.

• De Gaulle was known for his resourcefulness, energy, and indifference to danger during battles.
• His leadership style was characterized by independence, authoritarianism, and a conviction in his own judgment.
• Despite setbacks, de Gaulle remained hopeful and encouraged his followers to persevere.

"All that matters is to survive. The rest is just words."

De Gaulle's quote emphasizes the importance of endurance and survival in the face of adversity, suggesting that actions are more significant than rhetoric.

• De Gaulle's decision to go into exile was seen as an act of rebellion and a turning point in his life.
• He believed that character is pushed to the forefront in times of grave peril.
• De Gaulle's exile marked the beginning of his transformation into a leader who would save France.

"I appeared to myself alone and deprived of everything, like a man on the edge of an ocean that he was hoping to swim across."

This quote captures de Gaulle's sense of isolation and the monumental challenge he faced as he entered exile, symbolizing the start of his journey to leadership.

• De Gaulle's strength lay in his clear understanding of his goals and the flexibility in his approach to achieving them.
• His unwavering determination to continue fighting was recognized and respected by Winston Churchill.
• De Gaulle's clear communication and vision made it easier for others to collaborate with him.

"De Gaulle's strength during these ten days was that he was the only political figure in London who knew exactly what he wanted to do."

The quote reflects de Gaulle's clarity of purpose and the advantage it gave him in rallying support for his cause during a critical period.

• Charles de Gaulle experienced a pivotal moment where he realized his identity transcended personal existence and became a symbol for the French resistance.
• De Gaulle began to speak in the third person, acknowledging the persona that the public rallied around.
• This transformation was a response to the public's embrace and their expectations of him as a leader against Nazi occupation.

"De Gaulle had an epiphany. This is him writing. There were thousands of people. And they began to shout, de Gaulle. De Gaulle. I was taken aback." "From that day on, I would have to reckon with this man, this general de Gaulle. I became almost his prisoner."

The quote illustrates de Gaulle's realization of his role as a symbol of French resistance and hope, rather than just an individual.

• Radio broadcasts from London became a beacon of hope for the French people under Nazi occupation.
• Letters from France to London indicated the broadcasts were eagerly anticipated and provided a sense of connection.
• Despite being condemned to death and stripped of his nationality by the Vichy government, de Gaulle's influence grew through the broadcasts.

"At 815, our entire family falls silent and drinks in the voice of the english radio, of our free French. An invisible thread ties us to you."

This quote emphasizes the significance of de Gaulle's broadcasts in uniting and inspiring the French people during a time of despair.

• De Gaulle's singular focus was on the continuation of France as a sovereign nation.
• His leadership style was characterized by a disregard for the Vichy government and an unwavering commitment to French independence.
• De Gaulle's approach to leadership and vision for France drew parallels to business principles of customer loyalty and focus.

"I'm not worried about the vici government. I'm worried on one thing, the continuation of the french country as an idea, as a place, as a people."

The quote captures de Gaulle's prioritization of French sovereignty and identity over concerns about the collaborating Vichy government.

• De Gaulle was inclusive in his recruitment for the Free French Forces, disregarding prevalent anti-Semitic sentiments in France.
• He valued contributions to the resistance over personal attributes, emphasizing duty to France.

"Whether he is a jew, a partisan or all manner of other things. I only see one thing, that he is a frenchman who at the age of 52, has enrolled to fight."

This quote demonstrates de Gaulle's focus on unity and commitment to the French cause, rather than discrimination based on religion or background.

• De Gaulle's interactions with Winston Churchill and other allies were often strained due to his assertive and uncompromising nature.
• His determination and clarity of purpose sometimes led to disagreements, but also garnered respect and eventual support.

"Churchill was appalled by the reports of de Gaulle's behavior. His initial decision to support de Gaulle had been slightly impulsive gamble which had not entirely paid off."

The quote reflects the challenges and complexities of de Gaulle's relationship with Churchill and the British government.

• De Gaulle's leadership was crucial in unifying and directing the French resistance.
• Attempts by allies to diminish his influence were unsuccessful due to his strong support among the French people.

"The only authority that these resistant groups desire to recognize is that of de Gaulle. De Gaulle is now controlling the only french military force that can take part in this operation."

This quote highlights de Gaulle's pivotal role in leading the French resistance and the loyalty he commanded from the French people.

• De Gaulle's return to Paris was a triumphant moment, marking the culmination of his efforts to liberate France.
• His leadership and vision were validated by the massive public support he received upon his return.

"Paris. Paris outraged. Paris broken. Paris martyred. But Paris liberated. Liberated by itself. Liberated by its people."

The quote from de Gaulle's speech captures the emotion and significance of Paris's liberation and the role of the French people in achieving it.

• De Gaulle's leadership style and tenacity were key to the liberation of France and the restoration of the republic.
• His legacy is marked by his singleness of purpose and the confidence he inspired in the French people.
• The podcast recommends reading the book for a full account of de Gaulle's story and the impact of his leadership.

"De Gaulle gave them absolute confidence in their ability, being led by him, to accomplish whatever they said they were going to do."

The quote summarizes the essence of de Gaulle's leadership and the profound trust he instilled in the French people during the resistance.