Yvonne de Gaulle

Yvonne de Gaulle, born on May twenty-second, nineteen hundred, was a prominent French politician and the devoted wife of Charles de Gaulle. The couple married on April sixth, nineteen twenty-one, and together they raised three children: Philippe, Élisabeth, and Anne, the latter of whom was born with Down syndrome. Yvonne's commitment to her family and social causes was evident in her efforts to establish La fondation Anne-de-Gaulle, a charity dedicated to supporting children with disabilities.

As a first lady, Yvonne de Gaulle was known for her discretion and strong conservative Catholic values. She actively campaigned against societal issues such as prostitution and the sale of pornography, earning her the affectionate nickname Tante Yvonne, or “Auntie Yvonne.” Her influence extended to her attempts to persuade her husband to outlaw miniskirts in France, reflecting her traditional views on modesty.

Yvonne and Charles faced significant danger during their time in the public eye, narrowly escaping an assassination attempt on August twenty-second, nineteen sixty-two, when their car was targeted in an attack orchestrated by Jean Bastien-Thiry. Despite her numerous public appearances, Yvonne maintained a low profile, never granting radio or televised interviews, leaving the public unaware of her voice.

One of her most memorable quotes encapsulates her perspective on family and politics: 'The presidency is temporary—but the family is permanent.' Yvonne de Gaulle's legacy is marked by her unwavering support for her husband and her dedication to social causes, particularly those benefiting children with disabilities.