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The last recorded duel performed not with pistols but swords (épées) took place in France in 1967. The duel was between Gaston Deffere, Mayor of Marseille and Rene Ribière.
"After a clash in the National Assembly, Defferre yelled 'Taisez-vous, abruti!' at Ribiere and refused to apologize" ... "Ribière challenged and Defferre accepted. The duel took place in a private residence in Neuilly-sur-Seine, and it was officiated by Jean de Lipkowskiin."
The duel was fought with sharp steel, to first blood. One participant refused to accept first blood; after a second cut, the appointed arbiter ended the duel. Deferre was Mayor of Marseille at the time of the duel and President of the Socialist Group.
Heightening the drama, Ribière was to be married the following day, though he could expect to live to see his own wedding, Defferre having vowed not to kill him but "wound him in such a way as to spoil his wedding night very considerably."
