Two Strategies for Europe: De Gaulle, The United States, and the Atlantic Alliance 2nd Edition 9780847695317

De Gaulle’s policy often has been caricatured by admirers and detractors alike as an expression of nationalism or anti-Americanism. Yet Frederic Bozo argues that although it did reflect the General’s quest for grandeur, it also, and perhaps more important, stemmed from a genuine strategy designed to build an independent Europe and to help overcome the system of blocs. Indeed, the author contends, de Gaulle’s actions forced NATO to adapt to new strategic realities.

Retracing the different phases of de Gaulle’s policies, Bozo provides valuable insight into current French approaches to foreign and security policy, including the recent attempt by President Chirac to redefine and normalize the France-NATO relationship. As the author shows, de Gaulle’s legacy remains vigorous as France grapples with European integration, a new role within a reformed NATO, and relations with the United States.