A look back at French former first lady Bernadette Chirac's legacy
AI Summary
Bernadette Chirac, widow of former French president Jacques Chirac and an accomplished political figure in her own right, died on June 6, 2026, at age 93. Initially known for supporting her husband's political career, she became a prominent politician and philanthropist in Corrèze, serving multiple terms on the General Council and founding the Pièces jaunes charity operation. Her legacy reflects a transformation from a woman often derided for her classical style to a respected political and humanitarian figure.
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 – weathering his notorious infidelities with dry humor while building her own political power base in rural France – has died.
She was 93.
FRANCE 24's Philip Turle breaks down her legacy. ...