1961, April: DE GAULLE FIRM IN ARMY REVOLT: Algeria. Insurrection flares in Algeria as four French generals, with the aid of units of the Foreign Legion and the Army, seize the city of Algeria and other key points. Paris, France. With a paratroop invasion feared, Paris becomes an armed camp as the airports are closed and then put under heavy guard. President Charles De Gaulle assumes dictatorial power and appeals for unity.