Duduchotheque Cabu Chalons Portrait © Christophe Manquillet

Famous people from Châlons

They made history

From the 17th century to the present day, many prominent figures from Châlons have played a significant role in shaping history. Among them are inventors, soldiers, politicians and comedians, all of whom have left a lasting mark on today’s world. Come and meet these exceptional people who will share their stories with you and follow in their footsteps through the streets of Châlons-en-Champagne.

Cabu

Caricature artist and illustrator

(1938 – 2015)

Cabu was a popular French caricature artist, a committed press cartoonist and a comic book writer. He was tragically killed in the attack on Charlie Hebdo in January 2015.

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Pierre Dac

Comedian

(1893-1875)

Pierre Dac was a French comedian and actor. During the Second World War, he was also a leading figure in the Resistance against the occupation of France by Nazi Germany through his contributions to Radio London.

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Léon Bourgeois

Politician

(1851-1925)

Léon Bourgeois was a French politician. He is known as the leading proponent of cooperative solidarism. He was the first president of the League of Nations and, in 1920, won the Nobel Peace Prize.

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Nicolas Appert

Inventor

(1749-1841)

Nicolas Appert was the first person to develop a method of preserving food by heat sterilising it in airtight, sterile containers. He founded the world’s first canning factory in France.

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Pierre Bayen

Scientist

Pierre Bayen is a pioneer in the discovery of oxygen and is regarded as a key influence in modern chemistry.

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Jean Talon

Military Officer

(1625-1694)

Jean Talon was a distinguished military officer. First intendant of New France from 1665 to 1671, he is considered to be one of the “founding fathers” of Quebec.