Lionel Jospin, former French prime minister defeated by the far right, dies at 88

At 8 p.m. on April 21, 2002, voters learned the shock first-round results of France’s presidential election. For the first time in the Republic’s history, a far-right candidate – Jean-Marie Le Pen – would advance to the runoff.

Minutes later, Lionel Jospin addressed his supporters. The leading candidate of the left, who many had believed would be the next president, said he took full responsibility for the unexpected defeat.

As cries rose from the crowd, Jospin – pale but composed ...