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Who founded the Fifth Republic?
Model-written, not yet read by a native reader.
Correct answer: Charles de Gaulle. Charles de Gaulle founded the Fifth Republic. It was set up in 1958, after a political crisis. He strengthened the executive power. Source: the Ministry of the Interior sheet “Les présidents de la Vème République” (in French).
Sources: Sheet “Les présidents de la Vème République” (French), read on 21 October 2026. Answer written by Hexaciv from this source. Hexaciv is an independent preparation tool. It is not an official website, is not linked to any government body and does not give legal advice. The authoritative source is the Ministry of the Interior's, cited on this page.
The four choices and why
- ✗ Napoleon BonaparteNapoléon BonaparteNapoleon founded the First Empire, in 1804.
- ✓ Charles de GaulleCharles de GaulleCorrect answer. Charles de Gaulle founded the Fifth Republic. It was set up in 1958, after a political crisis. He strengthened the executive power.
- ✗ Jules FerryJules FerryJules Ferry is known for the school laws.
- ✗ Léon GambettaLéon GambettaLéon Gambetta proclaimed the Third Republic, in 1870.
How it reads on exam day
The exam is in French, so this is the question you will see: « Qui a fondé la Ve République ? ». Learn the English idea above and the French words in the options.
This question is on the official list for the multi-year residence card (CSP). The Ministry's wording: “Qui a fondé la Ve République ?”.
Where the Ministry explains it
Sheet “Les présidents de la Vème République” (French).
All 47 “History, geography and culture” questions on the CSP list
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