Francois Mitterrand

François Mitterrand was a controversial politician with a contested strategy and a flawed character. In spite of being one of France''s most detested political figures he was also undoubtedly one of twentieth century Europe''s most substantial durable and statesmanlike leaders. From his much-disputed passages at Vichy during WWII through the major policies of his presidency Mitterrand''s career is a lens through which one can view the anxieties fears and instabilities as well as achievements and successes of contemporary French political history. In this first major political biography since his death Ronald Tiersky looks at the contradiction that was Mitterrand and the legacy he left to France and the world. This promises to be the standard book on this great world leader for years to come.[Tiersky''s] crisp energetic narration gives both a sense of the biographer''s fascination with his subject and an appreciation for the sheer breadth of Mitterrand''s experience. - Publishers Weekly