Jean-Marie Le Pen, founder of the French far right, dies aged 96
The passing of Jean-Marie Le Pen, the controversial founder of France’s far-right National Front party, marks the end of an era in French politics. Known for his divisive rhetoric and nationalist agenda, Le Pen’s career was marked by controversy and confrontation.
Le Pen, who died at the age of 96, was a polarizing figure who tapped into working class concerns over immigration and globalization. He founded the National Front party in 1972 and contested five presidential elections during his political career. Despite reaching a run-off in 2002, he ultimately lost by a landslide to mainstream conservative Jacques Chirac.
Throughout his life, Le Pen faced accusations of racism and antisemitism, particularly after making inflammatory comments about the Nazi gas chambers during World War Two. His controversial statements provoked outrage in France and led to legal repercussions, including fines and convictions for contesting war crimes.
President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged Le Pen’s impact on French politics, describing him as a “historic figure of the far right” whose legacy would be judged by history. Le Pen’s populist rhetoric and fiery oratory style helped shape the political landscape in France, paving the way for the rise of nationalist movements.
Following his death, Le Pen’s daughter Marine, who succeeded him as the leader of the National Front party, is now seen as the frontrunner in the next presidential election scheduled for 2027. Marine Le Pen has worked to rebrand the party’s image and distance it from its controversial past, focusing on issues impacting the working class.
Despite his daughter’s efforts to modernize the party, Jean-Marie Le Pen remained a divisive figure within the National Front. His inflammatory statements and personal feuds with family members led to his expulsion from the party, highlighting the ongoing tensions within the far-right movement.
Overall, Jean-Marie Le Pen’s legacy in French politics is a complex and controversial one. While he was a powerful force in shaping nationalist sentiment in France, his divisive rhetoric and extremist views continue to spark debate and reflection on the country’s political landscape.
