Charles de Gaulle: A Thorn in the Side of Six American Presidents

William R. Keylor's book explores the complex relationships between Charles de Gaulle and six US presidents, from FDR's refusal to recognize Free France to Nixon's embrace of the Fifth Republic.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 376 pages
\n Publication date: 07 February 2021
\n Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield
\n

William R. Keylor delves into the intricate and often tumultuous connections between Charles de Gaulle and the six US presidents with whom he engaged. Extensively researched and masterfully crafted, the book spans from Franklin D. Roosevelt's steadfast refusal to acknowledge the leader of Free France to Richard Nixon's warm embrace of the founder of France's Fifth Republic.

Keylor meticulously explores the diverse range of personalities and political dynamics that shaped these interactions, shedding light on the complex web of alliances, rivalries, and misunderstandings that characterized the Franco-American relationship. From the initial resistance of Roosevelt to recognize de Gaulle's government to the eventual thawing of relations under Nixon, the book provides a comprehensive account of the shifting tides of diplomacy and the complex interplay of power and ideology.

Through a series of in-depth interviews and archival research, Keylor brings to life the personal dynamics and diplomatic strategies of the key players involved. He offers a nuanced understanding of the complex web of motivations and ambitions that drove each president's approach to France, highlighting the political, economic, and cultural factors that influenced their interactions.

The book also sheds light on the broader context of international relations during the Cold War, examining how the Franco-American alliance played a crucial role in shaping the global balance of power. Keylor explores the strategic implications of the alliance, including its impact on NATO, the European Union, and the Middle East. He also examines the challenges and complexities that arose from the alliance, such as the tensions over nuclear proliferation, the Vietnam War, and the collapse of the Soviet Union.

In conclusion, William R. Keylor's book is a seminal work in the study of Franco-American relations. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced account of the complex and often fraught relationships between Charles de Gaulle and the six US presidents with whom he interacted. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Keylor offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of the Cold War, international diplomacy, and the enduring legacy of Charles de Gaulle.

\n Weight: 716g\n
Dimension: 158 x 236 x 32 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781442236745\n \n