Jean-Marie Le Pen, a controversial figure in French politics, passed away on January 7 at the age of 96.
His career was marked by anti-Semitism, scandal, and shock tactics; he defended acts of torture during the Algerian War.
Le Pen transformed his name into a poisonous brand, manipulating fears surrounding immigration and insecurity.
Despite attempts by his daughter, Marine Le Pen, to distance the party from his legacy, the Rassemblement National remains haunted by his influence.
The party's current leadership has faced criticism for their unmeasured tributes to Le Pen, signaling the ongoing challenges within France's far right.