Jean-Marie Le Pen, the far-right politician who founded France’s National Front party, has passed away at the age of 96, according to local reports. Le Pen, who had been in a care facility for several weeks, died today surrounded by his family.
The Life and Legacy of Jean-Marie Le Pen
Born in 1928, Jean-Marie Le Pen was one of France’s most divisive and influential political figures of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. He made five attempts to become French President, reaching a run-off against Jacques Chirac in 2002 but suffering a decisive defeat.
Le Pen founded the National Front in 1972, which is now known as Rassemblement National. He led the party until his resignation in 2011, after which his daughter Marine Le Pen took over. Under her leadership, the party has become one of the most influential in France.
Controversies and Provocations
Jean-Marie Le Pen was known for his brash, charismatic speeches and controversial opinions on immigration, the European Union, culture, traditionalism, and religion, particularly Islam and Judaism. He was fined for downplaying the significance of the Holocaust and was a known Holocaust denier.
In 2012, Le Pen stirred controversy by criticizing the French film "The Intouchables," equating a multicultural France to the disabled lead character in the movie. Despite his divisive views, Le Pen garnered a significant following and is considered a precursor to today’s right-wing leaders like Donald Trump.
The Legacy Lives On
Despite his expulsion from the National Front in 2015 due to his extreme views, Jean-Marie Le Pen's influence on French politics continues to be felt. His brand of nationalism and populism has left a lasting impact, shaping the discourse around right-wing ideologies in France and beyond.
Jean-Marie Le Pen, France, National Front, Rassemblement National, far-right, politics
