New book on far right in France

A new book by Olivier Dard, published by Perrin and titled From 1870 to today, explores the evolution of the far right in France from 1870 to the present day. The book provides a chronological analysis of the "radical right," examining its various components, key moments, and cultural influences.

Far right's historical roots

According to the author, the far right has historically been an ideology of the defeated, encompassing groups such as legitimists, antisemitic antidreyfusards, pétainists, collaborators, and supporters of French Algeria. The book highlights the diversity and periods of influence of the far right in French politics.

National Rally's legacy

The book argues that the National Rally, despite its efforts to distance itself from its past, is considered the effective successor to the National Front led by Jean-Marie Le Pen. The author also notes the novelty of the far right's potential victory in a presidential election, a development that has sparked significant political discussion.

Critiques of the book's scope

The book has been praised for its ambitious synthesis but also criticized for starting its analysis in 1870, potentially overlooking the influence of earlier Counter-Revolutionary thinkers such as Joseph de Maistre and Louis de Bonald. Additionally, the Reconquête movement led by Éric Zemmour is mentioned only briefly.

Author's approach to categorization

The author deliberately avoids categorizing the far right as a fixed category in political science, leaving it to the reader to determine the foundational elements and consistent features of the movement. The book has 904 pages and is priced at 29 €.

Editorial association

Michel Winock, an advisor to the editorial board of L'Histoire, is associated with the publication.