In the late 17th century, Louis XIV infamously expelled nearly a million Protestants who at that time were a rich and powerful minority active in banking and finance.

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Among the minority who are politically active, or at least informed, many reject the alternatives offered by the main political parties.

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Elevation Partners, which holds a large minority stake in Forbes, was also active in the year-long search, with Ted Meisel and Bret Pearlman, who hold seats on the Forbes board, helping to vet candidates.

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