Former French first lady dies at 93: Bernadette Chirac, a 'discreet force'
Bernadette Chirac, the steel-willed former first lady of France who spent 12 years at the Élysée Palace from 1995 to 2007 beside president Jacques Chirac while building her own political power in rural Corrèze and turning a children’s hospital charity into a national institution, has died. She was 93. Beloved by many, Bernadette was a "discreet force" and the "rock" on which her husband's political career was based on, according to Paul Smith, head of modern languages and associate professor in French at the University of Nottingham.
Bernadette Chirac, the steel-willed former first lady of France who spent 12 years at the Élysée Palace from 1995 to 2007 beside president Jacques Chirac while building her own political power in rural Corrèze and turning a children’s hospital charity into a national institution, has died. She was 93. Beloved by many, Bernadette was a "discreet force" and the "rock" on which her husband's political career was based on, according to Paul Smith, head of modern languages and associate professor in French at the University of Nottingham.
What's Your Reaction?
Oganews
As a passionate news reporter, I am fueled by an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering commitment to truth. With a keen eye for detail and a relentless pursuit of stories, I strive to deliver timely and accurate information that empowers and engages readers.
/2026/05/11/6a01844fa89f4801745604.jpg?#)
