In late May 1968, France was engulfed in a wave of protests and strikes that escalated into a national crisis, led primarily by students and workers demanding reform. Against this backdrop, President Charles de Gaulle's sudden flight to Baden-Baden, West Germany, raised questions about his leadership. On May 30, de Gaulle reemerged publicly via radio, taking a decisive action by announcing the dissolution of the National Assembly. His speech aimed to reassert his authority and quell the growing unrest.

De Gaulle's message resonated with many who still supported him. Immediately following his address, approximately one million of his loyalists took to the streets, marching through the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris. This show of support was not just a counter-demonstration but also a display of the ongoing tension between the government and the various factions protesting in France. As these supporters rallied, de Gaulle’s intention was clear: to consolidate power and push for new elections, advocating for a return to stability.

The significance of this event lies in its role as a pivotal moment in the May 1968 uprisings, demonstrating the polarization within French society. It illustrated the stark divisions as well as the fervent loyalty of de Gaulle’s supporters amidst a climate of dissent and upheaval. This heavy mobilization set the stage for a reevaluation of the political landscape in France, revealing the challenges that de Gaulle and his administration faced in the coming months.