Giscard d'Estaing joins 'the immortals'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Valery Giscard d'Estaing, the former French president, joined the ranks of "the immortals" yesterday.
Despite opposition from a handful of members - who still resent his political manoeuvres to become president in 1974 - M. Giscard d'Estaing, 77, was elected as a member for life to the Académie Française, the organisation which pronounces on French language and culture.
M. Giscard d'Estaing was voted in 37 to 3 by the existing members of the academy.They are called "the immortals" because the academy's founder, Cardinal Richelieu, inscribed "to immortality" on the academy's seal.
Tradition demands the former president go to the the presidential residence, the Elysée Palace - his old home - to be greeted by President Jacques Chirac. But that could prove difficult as the two men are known to detest each other.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments