How a lawyer for the poor became a millionaire through political influence
Pierre Laval rose from humble beginnings as a defender of trade unionists to become a central figure in French politics. Yet, his career was defined by a massive, rapid accumulation of wealth and a controversial shift from socialist origins to fascist collaboration, ultimately ending in his execution for treason.
Born in 1883 to a café proprietor in Châteldon, Pierre Laval initially built his reputation as a "lawyer of the poor." In the early 20th century, he gained fame for defending strikers and left-wing agitators against government prosecution. His early political career was marked by pacifist convictions and a commitment to socialist ideals, which eventually led to his election to the Chamber of Deputies in 1914 as the youngest member of the body.
However, Laval’s trajectory shifted significantly between 1927 and 1930. During this period, he transitioned from relying on legal fees—which totaled 113,350 francs in 1927—to orchestrating large-scale investments totaling 51 million francs. These acquisitions, supported by financiers and investment trusts, included provincial newspapers like Le Moniteur du Puy-de-Dôme. By 1933, the circulation of this paper had more than doubled, and over 17 years, Laval earned approximately 39 million francs from his media holdings. The plant itself was valued at 50 million francs, a success that later fueled accusations that he had leveraged his political status for personal gain.
Laval defended his accumulation of assets, arguing in 1945 that "soundly based material independence" provided statesmen with necessary political autonomy. Despite his business success, his political career became increasingly fraught. After serving in various ministerial roles, including Minister of Labour, he eventually became a prominent fascist sympathizer during the Vichy regime. Following the Liberation of France, he was tried for collaboration with the Nazis and plotting against the state. After a failed suicide attempt, he was executed by firing squad in October 1945.
Source: Pierre Laval
