“When I am right, I get angry. Churchill gets angry when he is wrong. We are angry at each other much of the time.”
- November 22, 1890 – November 9, 1970
- French
- Military Leader, Statesman, President of France, Founder of the Fifth Republic
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Quote
“When I am right, I get angry. Churchill gets angry when he is wrong. We are angry at each other much of the time.”
Explanation
This quote by Charles de Gaulle humorously captures the tense and often combative relationship between himself and Winston Churchill during World War II. Beneath the wit lies a deeper commentary on ego, conviction, and the friction that arises between strong-willed leaders. De Gaulle claims moral superiority by suggesting his anger stems from being right, while Churchill’s arises from being wrong—implying that both men were principled, yet frequently clashing due to differing views and national priorities.
Historically, their relationship was marked by mutual respect but frequent discord. De Gaulle, as the leader of the Free French forces, often felt undermined or sidelined by the larger Allied powers, particularly Britain and the United States. Churchill, while instrumental in supporting de Gaulle’s role, grew frustrated with what he saw as de Gaulle’s inflexibility and obstinacy. The quote reflects the tension between pragmatic wartime alliances and the pursuit of national dignity and independence, especially on de Gaulle’s part.
In modern contexts, this quote illustrates how strong leadership often involves conflict, especially among peers who view themselves as guardians of greater causes. It serves as a reminder that even allies may disagree profoundly, but that such friction can coexist with respect and shared purpose, especially when the stakes are high. De Gaulle’s quip reveals the human side of diplomacy: beneath every policy or strategy lie personalities that shape history.
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