Jean-Marie Le Pen, Influential Far-Right Leader, Dies

Jean-Marie Le Pen, founder of the far-right National Front in France, has died at the age of 96. Born in 1928, Le Pen's political career spanned over six decades, during which he transformed the far-right from a marginalized group into a significant force in French politics. His tactics included a focus on nationalism and anti-immigrant rhetoric, which resonated with many voters, leading to notable electoral successes, including a presidential run in 1974. Despite being a controversial figure, often criticized for his extremist views and legal troubles, Le Pen played a crucial role in normalizing far-right ideologies within the French political landscape. His legacy is marked by both admiration and disdain, reflecting a deeply polarized response to his influence. Le Pen's death marks the end of an era for the political movement he helped shape and the broader implications for France's political future remain to be seen.