De Gaulle formalizes his break with René Pleven

In 1949, during the cantonal elections, De Gaulle adopted a very clear position of distance, even indifference, towards René Pleven, his former comrade from London and his former minister. The latter, president of the UDSR, had sought to establish a rapprochement between the Third Force and the RPF; but he ultimately did not join the Gaullist movement.

In this note addressed to a former companion of Free France, Pierre Guelorget (he had joined De Gaulle in London in January 42, before joining Koenig's staff, then settling in Saint-Brieuc), the General formalizes his break with Pleven.

"February 22, 1949"

For Mr. Guelorget

Mr. Pleven is not part of the Rally despite the appeal I made [statement to the "comrades" of February 20].

Mr. Pleven therefore cannot, under any circumstances or in any way, claim to agree with me.

We have nothing to do with Mr. Pleven in the context of the cantonal elections.

C. de Gaulle".

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