# Gérard Théry

> French engineer (1933-2021)

**Wikidata**: [Q3124330](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3124330)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gérard_Théry)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gerard-thery

## Summary
Gérard Théry was a French engineer and computer scientist (1933–2021) best known as one of the founders of the Minitel, France’s pioneering videotext system. His work in the telecommunications industry shaped early digital communication in France.

## Biography
- Born: February 25, 1933, in Sallaumines, France
- Nationality: French
- Education:
  - École polytechnique (1952)
  - Télécom Paris (1957)
- Known for: Leading the development of the Minitel, a foundational digital service in France
- Employer(s): Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Telephones (from 1955)
- Field(s): Telecommunications, computer science

## Contributions
Gérard Théry played a pivotal role in the creation of the Minitel, France’s videotext system launched in 1982. As a key figure at the Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Telephones, he oversaw the technical and regulatory aspects of the project, which became a cornerstone of digital communication in the country. His contributions helped establish France as a leader in early internet-like services. Théry’s work also involved advancements in telecommunications infrastructure, reflecting his expertise in both engineering and computer science.

## FAQs
### Q: What was Gérard Théry’s most significant achievement?
A: Théry was one of the key architects of the Minitel, France’s videotext system, which revolutionized digital communication in the 1980s.

### Q: Where did Gérard Théry work?
A: He worked at the Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Telephones, where he contributed to the development of the Minitel.

### Q: What awards did Gérard Théry receive?
A: He was honored with the Legion of Honour (Knight, 1974; Officer, 1986) and the National Order of Merit (Knight, 1967; Officer, 1979; Commander, 1993).

### Q: Where is Gérard Théry buried?
A: He died in Paris and was buried in the 15th arrondissement of the city.

## Why They Matter
Gérard Théry’s work on the Minitel laid the groundwork for France’s digital infrastructure, influencing early internet adoption and telecommunications policy. His contributions helped position France as a leader in digital services, setting a precedent for future technological advancements. Without his leadership, the Minitel’s success—and its impact on France’s digital economy—would not have been possible.

## Notable For
- Co-founder of the Minitel, a landmark digital service in France
- Recipient of prestigious French honors, including the Legion of Honour and National Order of Merit
- Engineer and computer scientist with expertise in telecommunications
- Worked at the Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Telephones, shaping France’s digital infrastructure

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Gérard Théry was born on February 25, 1933, in Sallaumines, France. He attended École polytechnique in 1952 and later studied at Télécom Paris in 1957, gaining expertise in engineering and computer science.

### Career and Minitel
Théry joined the Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Telephones in 1955, where he played a crucial role in the development of the Minitel. Launched in 1982, the Minitel became a national phenomenon, offering services like email, banking, and information access. Théry’s technical and regulatory contributions were instrumental in its success.

### Honors and Legacy
Théry received numerous awards, including the Legion of Honour (1974, 1986) and the National Order of Merit (1967, 1979, 1993). He passed away on July 18, 2021, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer in French telecommunications.

### Impact on France’s Digital Future
The Minitel’s success under Théry’s leadership demonstrated France’s ability to innovate in digital services. His work influenced later developments in telecommunications and internet infrastructure, ensuring France remained a key player in the digital age.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.lefigaro.fr/secteur/high-tech/deces-de-gerard-thery-l-un-des-fondateurs-du-minitel-20210726)
2. Fichier des personnes décédées mirror
3. general catalog of BnF
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. BnF authorities
6. Babelio
7. Who's Who in France