Definition
Roger Salengro (15 May 1886 – 27 June 1932) was a French politician and journalist who served as Minister of the Interior during the Third Republic. He is noted for his wartime service, his role in left‑wing politics, and his death by suicide following a campaign of false accusations against him.
Overview
Born in Bouchain, Nord, France, Salengro began his career as a schoolteacher before enlisting in the French Army during World I. He distinguished himself on the front lines, receiving the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honour for bravery. After the war, he entered politics as a member of the Radical Party (Parti Républicain, Radical et Radical‑Socialiste).
Elected to the Chamber of Deputies for the Nord department in 1924, Salengro was re‑elected in subsequent elections. He held several governmental posts, most prominently serving as Minister of the Interior from 13 March 1930 until his resignation on 20 February 1932. In this capacity, he oversaw police administration, public order, and internal security, and pursued reforms aimed at modernising the police force and combating corruption.
In early 1932, the right‑wing press, particularly the newspaper Le Petit Parisien, launched a coordinated smear campaign alleging that Salengro was involved with extremist groups and that he had accepted illicit funds. These accusations were later shown to be unfounded. Overwhelmed by the scandal and fearing further political damage, Salengro shot himself on 27 June 1932 in the garden of his Paris residence. His death prompted public debate over press ethics and the responsibility of media in political life.
Etymology/Origin
- Roger is a Germanic given name derived from the elements hrod (“fame”) and ger (“spear”), historically meaning “famous spear.”
- Salengro is a French surname of uncertain origin. It may be locational, derived from a place name, or occupational; precise etymological details are not confirmed.
Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Political affiliation | Radical Party (center‑left, republican) |
| Governmental roles | Deputy (1924‑1932); Minister of the Interior (1930‑1932) |
| Military service | French Army officer in WW I; awarded Croix de Guerre, Legion of Honour |
| Key initiatives | Police reform; measures to improve internal security; anti‑corruption efforts |
| Public perception | Viewed by supporters as a reformist and war hero; targeted by far‑right press as a scapegoat |
| Cause of death | Suicide on 27 June 1932, following defamatory press campaign |
| Legacy | Symbol of the dangers of political defamation; subject of parliamentary inquiries into press conduct |
Related Topics
- French Third Republic
- Radical Party (France)
- Ministry of the Interior (France)
- Press freedom and defamation in interwar France
- Croix de Guerre (France)
- Political suicides in modern history
- 1930s French political scandals
Note: While the majority of information presented is documented in historical sources, specific details regarding the exact governmental cabinets in which Salengro served as interior minister vary among references.