The Fifth Republic of France - French History
- Modern France
Constitution of the Fifth Republic: 1958
| Independence of French Colonies | François Mitterrand | Student Revolts
| Indochina and Algeria |Jacques Chirac
The Fourth Republic in France was essentially
brought down by problems inflicted by outbreaks of war in
France’s colonies. In 1958 the Constitution of the Fifth
Republic was adopted. During the 50’s and 60’s,
France underwent tough periods when the French colonies in
Africa and Asia began claiming their independence. The wars
in Indochina and Algeria cost the country many lives and money,
and made the government very unpopular with the people. There
were general strikes and student revolts in 1968, which ultimately
led to de Gaulle’s resignation from the government.
Until 1981, France was ruled by right-wing
administrations until François Mitterrand, a Socialist,
was elected president.
The current president, Nicolas Sarkozy assumed
office on May 6, 2007.
