Between Past and Future: Charles de Gaulle's Geopolitical Foresight and Its Implications for Modern Diplomacy
Date
2023-09-27
Authors
Fang, Francis
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Abstract
Charles de Gaulle's foreign policy, intricately woven with the concepts of national sovereignty, European unity, and balance of power, stands as a seminal study in the realm of international relations. This thesis delves into de Gaulle's geopolitical vision, where he sought European cooperation as a counterweight to superpower dominance, criticized U.S. military interventions such as the war in Vietnam, and aspired for an East-West détente to promote international peace. With the 21st-century’s shifting geopolitical dynamics, this research draws parallels between his political realism and current global affairs, underscoring the enduring relevance of his vision. In an era marked by rising multipolarity, the reassertion of nation-states, and collective global challenges, de Gaulle's legacy sheds light on how to foster prudent strategic thinking as the world navigates through uncertain times. Through a detailed exploration of his diplomacy and its resonance in today's global landscape, this thesis aims to provide a rich understanding of the intersections between past foreign policy strategies and contemporary geopolitical trends.
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International Relations, Global Affairs, Nation-State, Balance of Power, Multipolar, Realism, France, French History, Charles de Gaulle, Cold War, Europe, European Integration, European Union, China, Russia, The United States, Foreign Policy, Geopolitics