Alexandre Adler (September 23, 1950 – July 18, 2023) was a distinguished French historian, journalist, and authority on contemporary geopolitics, particularly concerning the former USSR and the Middle East. He was honored as a Knight of the Legion of Honour in 2002, reflecting his significant contributions to historical and political discourse.
Born in Paris to a German-Jewish family that endured the trials of World War II and the Holocaust, Adler received his history degree from the prestigious École normale supérieure between 1969 and 1974. His early political affiliations included Maoism and membership in the Communist Party (PCF), but by the late 1970s, he transitioned toward neoconservative ideologies, aligning closely with U.S. neoconservatives alongside his wife, Blandine Kriegel.
Adler's career included pivotal roles such as directing the chair for International Relations at the Interarmy College of Defense (1992–1998) and serving as editorial director of Courrier International from 1992 to 2002. His investigative work during the 1980s, particularly in L’Affaire Manouchian, showcased his commitment to historical accuracy, as he defended Boris Holban against claims of betrayal.
Additionally, Adler was an influential commentator for Le Monde and contributed to various publications, including Le Point and L'Express. He also held a position on the editorial board of the conservative daily, Le Figaro. Adler passed away in Paris at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of scholarly and journalistic excellence.
