Léon Blum
1879–1941 (age 62)
Biography
Léon Blum rose to lead the French Section of the Workers' International, guiding the Popular Front government that enacted the 40-hour workweek, paid vacations and a commitment to the republic while resisting creeping authoritarianism.
Even when he was vilified, imprisoned, and called upon to inspire the Resistance, his steadfast belief in democracy endured, and today his memory rests in Montparnasse Cemetery as a reminder of principled leadership.