Léon Say

Léon Say (6 June 1826 – 21 April 1896) was a French statesman and economist. He belonged to a prominent intellectual family; his grandfather, Jean-Baptiste Say, was a renowned classical economist.

Say served multiple times as Minister of Finance under various French governments during the Third Republic, playing a significant role in stabilizing the French economy after the Franco-Prussian War. He advocated for sound fiscal policy, free trade, and the gold standard. His policies were often aimed at reducing government debt and promoting economic growth through private enterprise.

Beyond his political career, Say was a prolific writer and journalist. He contributed extensively to economic journals and newspapers, popularizing economic ideas and advocating for his policy positions. He also held positions in several learned societies, including the Académie des Sciences Morales et Politiques.

Say's intellectual contributions included works on the history of finance and economics, as well as analysis of contemporary economic issues. He was a staunch defender of liberal economic principles and a key figure in the development of economic thought in France during the late 19th century. He is remembered as an influential figure in French economic policy and intellectual life.