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The article discusses the role of technology, particularly the videotex system Minitel and the Internet, in shaping lesbian identities in France. Topics discussed include the role of cyberspace in fostering social, cultural, and artistic exchange between lesbians who were otherwise isolated in society.

Building an advanced national information technology infrastructure can provide a competitive advantage for the countries that develop it as well as for the companies that operate in those countries. This article describes the development of the French national videotex system Télétel, also known as Minitel. The factors—technical and political—that made Télétel successful are explained and contrasted against other national videotex systems that became commercial failures. Political intrigue, technical capability, creative choices, and the deep pockets of a government-owned utility are all part of the Télétel story. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]