How did Charles de Gaulle use referenda during his presidency?

Charles de Gaulle frequently utilized referenda as a strategic tool to bypass parliamentary opposition, secure public consent for his policies, and reinforce his personal authority as president. He viewed these votes as a way to maintain a direct connection with the public and ensure his leadership remained legitimate, often framing them as a choice between his proposed measures and his own resignation.12

Key instances of his use of referenda include:

• Constitutional Foundation (1958): A referendum approved the new constitution of the Fifth Republic, which significantly expanded presidential power.12
• Algerian Independence (1961–1962): De Gaulle used referenda to secure public support for Algerian self-determination and the subsequent Évian Accords, which granted Algeria independence.23
• Presidential Election Reform (1962): He bypassed parliament to propose a constitutional amendment for the direct popular election of the president, which was approved by voters.123
• Resignation (1969): After voters rejected his referendum on Senate reform and regional reorganization, de Gaulle honored his pledge to resign, marking the end of his presidency.123