Nicolas Sarkozy: A life in pictures

Although French media have been quick to cast doubt on Nicolas Sarkozy's claims to have been present at the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 photographs have now emerged that definitively prove that the French leader has a Zelig like ability to be present at the 20th century's most important events.



As a Fullbright student Sarkozy manages to find his way into high society during his stay in the United States during the early 60's. He becomes a regular feature in the Kennedy's compound in the years leading up to JFK's term in the White House.



Later, with Sarkozy's drift to the right his presence in the American capital comes to the attention of Ronald Reagan who is quick to mentor his young French admirer.



As an ardent supporter of US foreign policy in the Middle East the future president of the French republic feels that his country's interests are best served by him taking a hands on approach to the invasion of Iraq and the overthrow of Saddam Hussein.



However, as his political career starts to wane in the early 90's Sarkozy decides to return to his first love, football as a result he is instrumental in helping the country's national team achieve international success during his brief stint as goalkeeper.