Cresson, Edith (1934–)

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Cresson, Edith (1934–)

French economist and politician. Born in France in 1934.

France's 1st woman prime minister, joined the Socialist Party (PS, 1975); served as mayor of Thure (1977) and from her seat in the European Parliament (1979) became known as an expert in agriculture; was the 1st woman to head the Ministry of Agriculture (1981–83); served as trade minister (1983–84, 1984–86) and minister for European affairs (1988); appointed prime minister by François Mitterand (1991), but was forced to resign after the Socialist Party's defeat in regional elections (April 1992), only 10 months into her appointment; served on the European Commission, the administrative and executive arm of the European Union (EU, 1995–98).

See also Women in World History.