Henri Hoppenot

Henri Hoppenot combined diplomacy with literary and artistic work. His early career brought him into the circle of Alexis Léger, Paul Claudel, and Darius Milhaud. He served with Claudel in Rio de Janeiro and wrote librettos for Milhaud's short operas. Later posts included Beijing and responsibility for European affairs in Paris. ¹

After France's defeat he represented Vichy in Uruguay, then broke with that government in 1942. His subsequent allegiance initially ran through General Giraud before the rival French movements joined in the Committee of National Liberation. In Washington he headed the civilian services of the French military mission; his position developed into representation of the committee and then the provisional government. ^{2, 1}

In July 1943 Hoppenot negotiated with American officials over the transfer of the French Antilles to the committee's authority. He explained that the mission would represent the committee as a whole, rather than seek personal allegiance to de Gaulle or Giraud. He discussed the departure of Admiral Robert, temporary local administration, and eventual appointment of new governors. ³

After the war he served in Switzerland, represented France at the UN Security Council, and became its last high commissioner in Indochina. He later joined the Conseil d'État. ¹