Discuss the role of de Gaulle in stabilizing France between 1958 and 1969.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the hypotheses that De Gaulle stabilized France after the problematic Fourth Republic. There may be some identification of the problems that led to the collapse of the Fourth Republic; but the focus will be on de Gaulle’s leadership and policies. There may be consideration of how effectively he solved political, social and economic problems and there may be comments on his role as a unifying figure and a strong leader under the terms of the new constitution. Evidence of increased stability may include his resolving of the Algerian war and fewer changes of government. Some candidates may argue that stability was limited as little was done to address underlying economic and social problems. The events of May 1968 could be cited as evidence of this. An alternative view could be that the events of 1968 did not seriously threaten political institutions.