François Mitterrand - by Ronald Tiersky (Hardcover)

About the Book

Tiersky examines three major themes of Mitterrand's presidency--socialism, national reconciliation, and building Europe--and shows that on each count, Mitterrand left a decisive mark, if not necessarily the one he intended or hoped for.

Book Synopsis

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

About the Author

Ronald Tiersky has taught politics at Amherst College since 1973. In 1980-1982, he was head of the Johns Hopkins SAIS Bologna Center in Italy. His other books are France in the New Europe, Ordinary Stalinism, and French Communism.