In 1934, Mitterrand moved to Paris to further his education at the École Libre des Sciences Politiques, where he graduated in 1937. His studies were abruptly interrupted by the outbreak of World War II, during which he enlisted in the infantry. In June 1940, he was wounded and captured by the Germans. His escape from a prison camp in late 1941 marked the beginning of a complex wartime journey, initially working with the Vichy government—a controversial fact revealed only in 1994—before joining the French Resistance in 1943.
Mitterrand’s political career began in earnest during the tumultuous years following the war. In August 1944, he was part of the Government of Secretaries-General established by General de Gaulle to manage the national territory until the Provisional Government of the French Republic was set up. By 1958, Mitterrand had become a vocal critic of de Gaulle's rise to power, denouncing what he saw as a coup d’état and opposing the new Fifth Republic’s institutions. Though he lost his seat as Deputy during this period, he regained it in 1962 after a brief stint in the Senate.
In 1971, Mitterrand firmly positioned himself as the leader of the Left Union, which paved the way for his future presidential campaigns. His persistence paid off when he was elected the Fifth Republic's first Socialist president on May 10, 1981, and re-elected in 1988. Mitterrand's 14-year presidency was marked by significant social reforms. He implemented policies that were highly anticipated by workers, such as enhancing labor rights, improving social security, and extending welfare programs. Additionally, his administration abolished the death penalty, modernized the penal code, and strengthened freedom of speech.
Mitterrand was also a key advocate for France's active participation in international affairs, particularly emphasizing peace initiatives. His tenure saw France firmly rooted within the European Union, playing a crucial role in fostering deeper integration and cooperation among European nations. This commitment to European unity was part of his broader vision of a politically and economically cohesive Europe.
François Mitterrand's legacy is multifaceted. He is remembered not only for his domestic policies and social reforms but also for his contributions to France's position on the global stage. His presidency significantly shaped the modern French state and its role within the European Union, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's history.
François Mitterrand: Architect of Modern France and European Integration
