Jacques Chirac

Jacques René Chirac was born in Paris on November 29, 1932. His family had roots in rural southwestern France, with grandparents who were teachers and great-grandparents who were farmers. Chirac received his early education in Paris, attending prestigious schools like Lycée Carnot and Lycée Louis-le-Grand.

Interestingly, before pursuing higher education, he served for three months as a sailor on a coal transport ship. He also developed a passion for languages, becoming nearly fluent in Russian by age 17. Inspired by Charles de Gaulle, Chirac embarked on a career in public service.

He attended the elite École nationale d'administration (ENA), which trains France's top civil servants. During his studies, he briefly joined the French Communist Party and signed the Stockholm Appeal, a peace initiative. His early career also included a stint working for Anheuser-Busch in the United States and military service as a reserve officer, during which he volunteered for the Algerian War.

Chirac's political career officially launched in 1962 when he joined the staff of Prime Minister Georges Pompidou, who became a mentor and nicknamed him 'Le Bulldozer' for his drive and efficiency. This nickname, reflecting both his effectiveness and sometimes abrasive style, stayed with him throughout his career. In 1967, he was elected to the National Assembly representing his home region of Corrèze, a surprising victory that marked his entry into national politics.

He served in various ministerial roles, including Minister of Agriculture and Minister of the Interior, gaining significant experience. His early political maneuvering involved navigating the complex landscape of Gaullist politics, often aligning with Pompidou's faction. He played a key role in negotiating during the May 1968 student and worker protests and later worked closely with Valéry Giscard d'Estaing.

Chirac served as Prime Minister under President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing from 1974 to 1976. At 41, he was seen as a 'young wolf' in politics. After disagreements with Giscard, Chirac resigned and focused on rebuilding the Gaullist movement, founding the Rally for the Republic (RPR) party.

A pivotal period in his career was his tenure as Mayor of Paris from 1977 to 1995. This 18-year term allowed him to build a strong political base and implement urban development projects, including social programs and infrastructure improvements like the 'Motocrotte' street cleaners. His mayoral office became a launchpad for his presidential ambitions.

Elected President in 1995, Chirac campaigned on a platform of reducing the 'social fracture.' His first term saw unpopular austerity measures and major strikes, notably in 1995. He also controversially authorized the resumption of nuclear testing in 1995 before signing the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. A significant domestic reform was the 2000 referendum that reduced the presidential term from seven to five years.

Internationally, Chirac is perhaps best remembered for his strong opposition to the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, a stance that significantly strained relations with the United States but garnered international support. He also made a historic acknowledgment of the French state's role in the deportation of Jews during World War II. His second presidential election in 2002 saw him win a landslide victory of 82.2% against Jean-Marie Le Pen.

After leaving the presidency in 2007, Chirac remained a respected figure, though his public appearances became less frequent. In 2011, he was found guilty of diverting public funds and abusing public trust during his time as Mayor of Paris, receiving a two-year suspended prison sentence. His legacy is complex, marked by his long service, his populist appeal, his significant role in shaping Paris, his strong stance on international issues like the Iraq War, and his acknowledgment of historical responsibilities.

He passed away on September 26, 2019.