Jean-Marie Le Pen, French Far Right Founder, Passes Away at 96

Jean-Marie Le Pen: A Controversial Political Figure

The founder of French far right, Jean-Marie Le Pen, passed away at the age of 96. He established France's far-right movement in the 1970s and made a significant impact on the country's political landscape.

A Charismatic Figure

Le Pen was perceived by his supporters as a charismatic champion of the common man. He fearlessly addressed challenging topics and was considered one of France's most controversial political figures for several decades.

Despite his strong following, critics labeled him as a far-right extremist due to his radical views on race, gender, and immigration. Le Pen faced numerous legal convictions for his inflammatory statements.

Political Career and Ideology

Throughout his political career, Le Pen focused on pushing his beliefs into the mainstream. He ran for the French presidency multiple times, gaining significant support but never clinching the top position.

His party, the National Front, underwent a process of "de-demonisation" to shed its extremist image and appeal to a wider audience. Le Pen described himself as "ni droite, ni gauche, français" - emphasizing his French identity over political affiliations.

Legacy and Family Rift

Le Pen's daughter, Marine Le Pen, eventually took over the National Front but distanced herself from her father's controversial views. The party was rebranded as the National Rally, marking a shift towards a more moderate stance.

Despite the family rift and his expulsion from the party, Jean-Marie Le Pen remained steadfast in his beliefs. His legacy as a polarizing figure in French politics endures, leaving a lasting impact on the country's political landscape.