Georges Pompidou
Georges Pompidou
Biography of the 19th President of France
Full Name and Common Aliases
Georges Jean Raymond Pompidou was born on July 5, 1911, in Montboudif, Cantal, France. He is often referred to as Monsieur le Président or simply M. le Président by his countrymen.
Birth and Death Dates
July 5, 1911 - April 2, 1974
Nationality and Profession(s)
French politician and economist
As a renowned statesman, Pompidou played a pivotal role in shaping France's domestic and foreign policies during the Cold War era. His expertise in economics also made him an influential figure in European politics.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in rural Cantal, Pompidou was raised by his parents, Aurélien and Marie-Louise (née Fournier) Pompidou. The family's modest circumstances instilled in Georges a strong work ethic and the importance of education. He pursued his academic interests at the University of Clermont-Ferrand, graduating with a degree in philosophy.
Pompidou's intellectual curiosity and passion for economics led him to further his studies in Paris, where he earned a doctorate from the École des Sciences Politiques (now known as Sciences Po). His early career was marked by stints as a teacher, journalist, and economist, honing his skills in politics and international relations.
Major Accomplishments
Pompidou's ascent to prominence began during World War II. He became involved with the French Resistance, working closely with General Charles de Gaulle to undermine the Vichy regime. This clandestine work laid the groundwork for his future roles in shaping France's post-war trajectory.
Following the war, Pompidou served as a senior advisor to Prime Minister Robert Schuman and later held various cabinet positions under General de Gaulle. His expertise in economic policy earned him the position of Finance Minister from 1962 to 1966.
Notable Works or Actions
As President (1969-1974), Pompidou's leadership focused on several key areas:
Economic Growth: He implemented policies aimed at revitalizing France's stagnant economy, including liberalization of trade and investment.
Cultural Development: Under his guidance, Paris transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, with numerous museums, art galleries, and performance venues opening during this period.
* International Relations: Pompidou sought to strengthen France's position within the European Community (precursor to the EU) while maintaining its independence in international affairs.
Impact and Legacy
Georges Pompidou's presidency marked a significant turning point for France. His economic reforms helped stimulate growth, modernizing the country's infrastructure and industrial base. The cultural renaissance he championed cemented Paris' status as a global center of artistic expression.
Pompidou's diplomatic efforts also contributed to improved relations between France and its European partners. His support for British entry into the Common Market in 1973 marked a significant shift in Franco-British relations, paving the way for closer cooperation on regional issues.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Georges Pompidou's lasting impact can be attributed to his ability to balance competing interests and forge meaningful alliances. His emphasis on economic development and cultural enrichment not only transformed France but also left a lasting legacy in international relations.
As a statesman, economist, and visionary, Pompidou's contributions continue to inspire discussion among scholars, policymakers, and enthusiasts alike.
Quotes by Georges Pompidou
There are three way of courting ruin – women, gambling, and calling in technicians.
A statesman is a politician who places himself at the service of the nation. A politician is a statesman who places the nation at his service.
Your city is remarkable not only for its beauty. It is also, of all the cities in the United States, the one whose name, the world over, conjures up the most visions and more than any other, incites one to dream.
There are three ways to spoil a public man: women, gambling, and listening to experts. The first is the pleasantest, the second is the fastest, but the third is the most certain.
There are three way of courting ruin -- women, gambling, and calling in technicians.
The rest of the world cannot be expected to regulate its life by a clock which is always slow.
When I first arrived at the Matignon, my desire was to reconcile Parliament and De Gaulle. I had forgotten only two things. Parliament and De Gaulle.
The most dangerous thing about student riots is that adults take them seriously.
