French President Charles de Gaulle, during an official state visit to Canada in 1967, made a politically charged statement that reverberated across the nation. Addressing a massive crowd in Montreal, de Gaulle proclaimed 'Vive le Québec libre!' or 'Long live free Quebec!' This declaration was made at a time when identity and cultural conflicts between the French-speaking population of Quebec and the English-speaking rest of Canada were becoming increasingly pronounced. The event took place during Expo 67, a world's fair that was also a celebration of Canada's centennial, showcasing a united front to the world while tensions simmered underneath.

De Gaulle’s remarks were intended to show solidarity with the Quebec nationalist movement, which aimed for greater autonomy from the Canadian federal government. The crowd’s enthused response indicated significant support for his message among the Francophone population. However, the proclamation was met with significant backlash from the Canadian government, particularly from Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson, who viewed the comments as an interference in Canadian affairs and detrimental to national unity. This incident highlighted the ongoing struggle over Quebec’s identity and relations with the rest of Canada, a theme that would continue to dominate Canadian politics.

The declaration was not just an isolated incident but part of a broader narrative of the 1960s that saw a rise in nationalist sentiments not only in Quebec but in various parts of the world. De Gaulle's visit symbolized both a celebration of French culture and an expression of conflict regarding national identity. The phrase 'Vive le Québec libre!' became a rallying cry for Quebec separatists and significantly influenced discussions about sovereignty and political power that would resonate for decades within Canada.