De Gaulle's bold move to end the French May

In May 1968, Charles de Gaulle faced a significant crisis due to widespread protests in France. He threatened to resign, which helped to divide unions and students while rallying support from the silent majority. Amidst massive strikes and occupations, the government negotiated labor improvements, including wage increases and reduced working hours. De Gaulle's decisive speech on May 30 announced the dissolution of the National Assembly and called for civic action to restore order. His actions ultimately quelled the unrest and preserved the Fifth Republic, framing the protests as a threat to democracy and emphasizing the need for stability in France.