Leon Blum, former Premier of France, died today suddenly of a heart attack at Jouy-en-Josas, his country home mear Paris, at the age of 78. He was in good health yesterday and his death came as a complete shock to his friends.
A distinguished lawyer, Journalist and political leader, M. Blum was France’s first Jewish and first Socialist Prime Minister. He was three times Premier and failed by only ten votes to head the government for a fourth time in November, 1947. During the war he was tried by the pro-Nazi Vichy Government and imprisoned by the Germans.
A leader of the French Socialist movement, he was a strong supporter of Zionist aspirations. For several years he represented French Jewry in the Council of the Jewish Agency. He also warmly advocated the work of the Keren Hayesod and was a member of the French Palestine Committee in Paris. A colony bearing his name was established in Palestine shortly before the outbreak of World War II in recognition of his interest in the Zionist cause.
Born in Paris, he achieved academic distinction at an early age both in letters and in law. At the age of 22, he was a recognized poet and a literary and dramatic critic. He was first elected Premier in 1936. French President Vincent Auriol, upon receiving the news today of M. Blum’s death, went straight to Joy-an-Josas. The news of M. Blum’s death stunned the Parliamentary chamber. Arrangements are being made to eulogize him at tomorrow’s session of Parliament.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
