Military & Warriors · Modern
Charles de Gaulle’s Last Words
“It hurts.”— Charles de Gaulle, November 9, 1970
Who Was Charles de Gaulle?
Charles de Gaulle was a French military officer and statesman who led Free France during WWII and later founded the French Fifth Republic, serving as its first President.
The Final Moments
De Gaulle collapsed at his home in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises while playing solitaire. He was watching television when he felt sudden pain.
Are These Words Verified?
De Gaulle's wife Yvonne was present and reported his brief exclamation of pain before his sudden death from an aneurysm. This is well-documented in French sources.
Sources
- firsthand Yvonne de Gaulle (wife) account
- newspaper Contemporary French press reports
- biography Jean Lacouture biography De Gaulle
Legacy
De Gaulle is France's greatest 20th century leader. His vision of French grandeur and independence continues to shape French foreign policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Charles de Gaulle’s last words?
“It hurts.”
How did Charles de Gaulle die?
Charles de Gaulle died on November 9, 1970 at the age of 79. Cause of death: Rupture of a blood vessel — aortic aneurysm.
Were Charles de Gaulle’s last words documented?
De Gaulle's wife Yvonne was present and reported his brief exclamation of pain before his sudden death from an aneurysm. This is well-documented in French sources.
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