Jean Charest Biography

Occup.Lawyer
FromCanada
BornJune 24, 1968
Age56 years
Early Life and Education
Jean James Charest was born on June 24, 1968, in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, to Rita (née Dion) and Claude "Red" Charest. Jean grew up in a Francophone family and was raised alongside his siblings Michèle, Robert, Charles, and François. His daddy worked as a sales executive while mother was a housewife.

Jean went to the Séminaire de Sherbrooke and later on pursued his studies at the Université de Sherbrooke, where he finished with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science in 1989. Following his enthusiasm for law, Charest continued his studies at the Université de Sherbrooke's law school and made his LL.B degree in 1992. Throughout his time at university, Jean revealed excellent interest and active participation in politics, ending up being a member of the Young Liberals Club in Sherbrooke.

Early Career
After completing his law degree, Charest was confessed to the Quebec Bar Association in 1993 and started practicing law at a prominent law firm in Montreal. Jean specialized in civil and commercial lawsuits, and his effort and devotion rapidly made him a reputation as a skilled lawyer.

In 1996, Charest chose to take a step further into the political world and successfully ran for a seat in the Canadian House of Commons, representing Sherbrooke as a member of the Liberal Party. Throughout his first term in workplace, Charest focused on issues such as financial growth, job production, and education.

Political Career
Charest's political profession took a turn for the better when he was selected as Minister of State for Youth by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien in 1998. Jean's efficiency in his first ministerial role earned him both recognition and respect from his peers and constituents.

In 2001, Charest was selected as Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, a position he held till 2003. During his tenure, Jean actively advocated for judicial reforms, consisting of the modernization of the Canadian legal system and the establishment of a more effective and efficient judiciary. He was likewise crucial in the passage of several significant pieces of legislation, such as the Anti-terrorism Act.

Jean Charest's political career continued to flourish when he was elected as the leader of the Quebec Liberal Party in 2003. As leader of the celebration, Charest highlighted the value of a strong and prosperous Quebec within a joined Canada. He promoted state-funded healthcare, education, and social services, along with promoted a competitive company environment to stimulate economic development.

Under Jean Charest's leadership, the Quebec Liberal Party won the 2003 provincial elections, and Charest became the Premier of Quebec. Charest would serve as Premier from 2003 to 2012, making him one of the longest-serving premiers in Quebec history.

Throughout his time as Premier, Charest initiated and executed a number of significant policies, including the Plan Nord, an ambitious financial advancement strategy aimed at making use of natural resources in the northern regions of Quebec, and the controversial tuition charge increase proposition, which led to the massive 2012 student demonstrations.

Post-Political Life and Personal Life
Jean Charest returned to practicing law after leaving the Quebec premiership in 2012. He signed up with the international law office McCarthy Tétrault as a partner, specializing in global business and federal government relations.

In his individual life, Jean Charest wed his partner Michèle Dionne in 1991, and the couple has three children: Amélie, Antoine, and Alexandra. Charest also preserves an active presence in various non-profit organizations and acts as a board member and speaker in numerous global conferences, supplying his indispensable experience and insight in politics and law.

Throughout his career, Jean Charest has been a prominent figure in Canadian politics, a competent lawyer, and a dedicated supporter for the people of Quebec. His enthusiasm for public service and commitment to developing a much better future for all Canadians have left a long lasting effect on the political landscape of Quebec and Canada.

Our collection contains 4 quotes who is written / told by Jean.

Related authors: Lawrence Taylor (Athlete)

4 Famous quotes by Jean Charest

Small: From that moment on, there will be an irreversible process to separate Quebec from Canada
"From that moment on, there will be an irreversible process to separate Quebec from Canada"
Small: Recognizing Quebec as being different, recognizing our history, recognizing our identity, has never mea
"Recognizing Quebec as being different, recognizing our history, recognizing our identity, has never meant a weakening of Quebec and has never been a threat to national unity"
Small: Our real interest starts with our neighbors... the future is about regional economies
"Our real interest starts with our neighbors... the future is about regional economies"
Small: You cant go east and west at the same time
"You can't go east and west at the same time"