Date of Birth: August 9, 1930
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Date of Death: June 1, 2015
Biography
Jacques Parizeau was a prominent Canadian economist and politician, best known for his role as the 26th Premier of Quebec. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Parizeau was a significant figure in Quebec’s political landscape and a staunch advocate for Quebec sovereignty. He played a pivotal role in shaping the province’s economic policies and was instrumental in the 1995 Quebec referendum, which sought Quebec’s independence from Canada. Parizeau was educated at prestigious institutions, including the Université de Montréal, HEC Paris, and the London School of Economics, where he earned his doctorate in economics. His academic prowess led him to a successful career in economics, eventually becoming a professor at the Université de Montréal. His political career began in earnest when he joined the Parti Québécois (PQ), a political party dedicated to Quebec nationalism and independence. Throughout his career, Parizeau held various significant positions, including Minister of Finance and Minister of Revenue under Premier René Lévesque. He was known for his economic acumen and his ability to navigate complex fiscal challenges. Parizeau’s tenure as Premier from 1994 to 1996 was marked by his unwavering commitment to Quebec’s sovereignty, culminating in the near-success of the 1995 referendum, which saw 49.42% of Quebecers voting in favor of independence. After resigning as Premier following the referendum, Parizeau remained an influential figure in Quebec politics and continued to advocate for the province’s independence until his passing.
5 Interesting Facts about Jacques Parizeau
1. Jacques Parizeau was a key architect of Quebec’s public pension plan, the Régie des rentes du Québec.
2. He was a senior adviser to the Quebec government during the Quiet Revolution, a period of intense socio-political and socio-economic change in Quebec during the 1960s.
3. Parizeau was a recipient of the Grand Officer of the National Order of Quebec, one of the province’s highest honors.
4. He authored several books on economics and Quebec politics, including “Pour un Québec souverain” (For a Sovereign Quebec).
5. Parizeau was known for his strong and often controversial opinions, particularly regarding his views on Quebec’s relationship with the rest of Canada.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jacques Parizeau
1. “I have never doubted that Quebec would one day become a country.”
2. “The future of Quebec lies in the hands of its people, not in the hands of others.”
3. “Economics is the method; the object is to change the heart and soul.”
4. “A nation is built on the strength of its identity and the courage to assert it.”
5. “The journey to sovereignty is long, but it is a journey worth taking.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Jacques Parizeau’s net worth was estimated to be over $3 million.
Children
Jacques Parizeau had two children: 1. Isabelle Parizeau 2. Bernard Parizeau
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia – Jacques Parizeau](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacques_Parizeau
