# Fifth Republic formally established (1958)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1958-fifth-republic-formally-established
Location: France
Categories: main-event

The new constitutional order entered into force. Within the broader Fifth Republic period, The 1958 Constitution created a stronger presidency and a durable Fifth Republic. Decolonization, European integration, social change, economic shocks and recurring debates over identity, secularism and the role of the state have shaped contemporary France. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is René Coty (President of the French Republic). Fifth Republic formally established is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Fifth Republic formally established is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France.

Ruler at the time: [René Coty](https://history-france.com/rulers/rene-coty)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Fifth Republic formally established](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Fifth+Republic+formally+established&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Fifth Republic formally established](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Fifth+Republic+formally+established)
- [Élysée — Institutions of the Fifth Republic](https://www.elysee.fr/en/french-presidency/the-institutions)