Life and Legacy of Jean-Marie Le Pen
Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder of the far-right National Front party in France, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 96. Despite retiring from politics in 2015, Le Pen continued to be a prominent figure, inspiring far-right and xenophobic movements across Europe.
Early Life and Career
Born on June 20, 1928, in La Trinité-sur-Mer, a small town in the Brittany region of western France, Le Pen came from a humble background. He began his political career in 1956, when he was elected as a deputy in the French National Assembly at just 27 years old. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that he formed the National Front, alongside former Nazi collaborators and veterans of the French wars.
Rise to Prominence
Initially considered a marginal and extremist formation, the National Front evolved over time into what is now known as the National Group (RN), led by Le Pen’s daughter, Marine Le Pen. The party has become a significant force in French politics, achieving over 11 million votes in the European elections and legislative elections of 2024.
Controversies and Convictions
Le Pen was convicted on several occasions for hate crimes and an act of violence against a deputy. His inflammatory comments often sparked controversy, including his assertion that the gas chambers used by the Nazis were “a mere detail in the history of the Second World War.” He also made derogatory remarks about Muslims, claiming that they would “rule” France if their numbers increased.
Later Life and Expulsion from the Party
In 2011, Le Pen stepped down as leader of the National Front, passing the baton to his daughter Marine. However, their relationship became strained due to his radical opinions, which ultimately led to his expulsion from the party he founded. Le Pen criticized Marine’s approach to immigration, calling it “sugarcoated,” and expressed sympathy for another far-right leader, Éric Zemmour.
Final Years
In recent years, Le Pen’s health had deteriorated, and he was admitted to a medical center for several weeks before his passing. According to his family, he died surrounded by his loved ones.