# Third cohabitation begins (1997)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1997-third-cohabitation-begins
Location: France

After a failed dissolution gamble, Chirac appointed Socialist Lionel Jospin prime minister. Within the broader Fifth Republic period, The 1958 Constitution created a stronger presidency and a durable Fifth Republic. Decolonization, European integration, social change, economic shocks and recurring debates over identity, secularism and the role of the state have shaped contemporary France. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Jacques Chirac (President of the French Republic). Third cohabitation begins is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Third cohabitation begins is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France.

Ruler at the time: [Jacques Chirac](https://history-france.com/rulers/jacques-chirac)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Third cohabitation begins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Third+cohabitation+begins&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Third cohabitation begins](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Third+cohabitation+begins)
- [Élysée — Institutions of the Fifth Republic](https://www.elysee.fr/en/french-presidency/the-institutions)