Mitterrand, Danielle (1924–)

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Mitterrand, Danielle (1924–)

First lady of France and humanrights activist. Born Danielle Gouze in 1924; m. François Mitterrand (president of France, 1981–95, died Jan 8, 1996); children: 2 sons.

An important and committed human-rights activist, became well known for her work on behalf of the Kurdish citizens of Iraq; founded France Libertés, a humanitarian organization that agitated foreign governments with its outspoken support for dissidents and ethnic minorities (1986).

See also Women in World History.