Deschanel (da'-sha'-nel'), Paul. French statesman, orator, and writer. Chosen president of France for the term 1920-27. Born in Brussels, Belgium, 1856. He was educated at the College Saint-Barbe, and at the Lycee Condorcet. Elected to the Chamber of Deputies, 1885, he became noted for his eloquence as a party leader and as an advocate of the separation of church and state. He was president of the Chamber of Deputies, 1898-1902 and 1913-14. In 1899 he was elected to the French Academy. His numerous writings include "French Interests in the Pacific," "The Social Question," "Lamartine," and "Internal and Foreign Policy." Owing to failing health, Deschanel resigned the presidency of France, September 16, 1920. Died 1922.

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