Early Life and Political Involvement

Jean Mairey was born on 9 August 1907 in Dijon and died on 16 October 1982 in Montbard. He was a member of the SFIO, a French socialist political party active in the early 20th century.

Early Career and Views on the Spanish Civil War

Starting in 1936, Mairey wrote numerous articles for the Socialiste côte-d’orien, a regional socialist newspaper. Initially, he supported non-intervention in the Spanish Civil War but later expressed support for intervention in an article dated 01/02/1938.

Political Stance Against the Munich Agreements

Mairey was part of the left-wing Bataille socialiste current within the SFIO. He opposed the Munich Agreements, a 1938 treaty that allowed Nazi Germany to annex parts of Czechoslovakia, and criticized them in a series of newspaper articles.

Post-War Demobilization and Resistance Activities

After the armistice with Nazi Germany, Mairey was demobilized with the rank of aspirant. The Vichy authorities, which ruled France during the German occupation, prevented him from returning to his position in Dijon due to his pre-war activism.

Resistance Work in Lyon

With the help of Inspector General Jules Isaac, who was later dismissed by the Vichy regime due to his Jewish heritage, Mairey was assigned to the Lycée du Parc in Lyon in 1940. He quickly joined the Resistance and participated in meetings with the "Esprit" group led by Emmanuel Mounier.

Clandestine Journalism and Resistance Leadership

Mairey and his colleague Georges Bidault were responsible for editing several clandestine newspapers. From 05 to 10/1942, the newspaper Combat, a key publication of the Resistance movement, was written at Mairey’s home. He also helped prepare the call of 14/07/1942, which led to mass demonstrations in Lyon.

Post-War Government Roles

After the war, Mairey played a significant role in planning the post-liberation government. He worked with Pierre-Henri Teitgen on the CGE, a group of experts advising General de Gaulle. Later, he continued this work with the MUR, a similar organization.

Later Career and Teaching

In 1943, to avoid capture by the Gestapo, Mairey was transferred to the Lycée Hoche in Versailles. He had to disappear in 1944 and later settled in the Côte d'Or, where he worked with the NAP and helped establish the CDL. He held various government positions, including Secretary General of the Ministry of the Interior and Director General of the National Police.

Later Life and Recognition

Mairey retired in 1972 after teaching in Paris. He was awarded the Knight of the Legion of Honour, the Companion of Liberation, and the Croix de Guerre 1939-1945 with palms for his wartime contributions.