Bernard Jean Étienne Arnault was born on March 5, 1949, in Roubaix, France, a northern city known for its textile industry. He was the son of Jean Arnault, a successful businessman who owned a construction company, and his mother, who came from a well-off family. The influence of his father’s business background would play a significant role in Bernard’s life, but it’s also important to note that his childhood was marked by a blend of privilege and responsibility.