Skip to main content
In 1960, Quebec society was still heavily influenced by Catholic conservatism, which permeated most of its institutions. During the French president’s stay in the capital, he visited several places where he was welcomed by high-ranking clergy members. Such was the case at Université Laval, where he met with Premier Antonio Barrette and Archbishop Maurice Roy.
1960 - 1967

Charles de Gaulle’s visit to Québec City

French president Charles de Gaulle visited Québec City three times. In July 1944, he came as head of the Provisional Government of the French Republic, just one month after the Normandy landings. In April 1960, de Gaulle was welcomed to the city by Premier Antonio Barrette at a time when the province was Catholic and conservative. De Gaulle returned to Québec City in 1967, at the height of the Quiet Revolution, to tour the province by car. His trip ended in Montréal where he pronounced his famous “Vive le Québec Libre!” (long live a free Quebec). Three visits, three different eras!

Charles de Gaulle greeting Archbishop Maurice Roy

Auteur inconnu In 1960, Quebec society was still heavily influenced by Catholic conservatism, which permeated most of its institutions. During the French president’s stay in the capital, he visited several places where he was welcomed by high-ranking clergy members. Such was the case at Université Laval, where he met with Premier Antonio Barrette and Archbishop Maurice Roy.
Chronoscope Can you name anyone else in the photo? (unilingual French for a limited time) Source: Ville de Québec Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Québec Provincial Publicity Bureau - Jean Pelletier Fonds - Date: 1960-04-20