Hélène Carrère d’Encausse 1929 – 2023

Biography

Hélène Carrère d’Encausse was born on July 6, 1929, in Paris’s 16th arrondissement, into a world where her intellectual pursuits would eventually reshape scholarly understanding of Russian and Soviet history. Her life spanned nearly a century, during which she became recognized as a distinguished historian whose work enriched French academic discourse and contributed significantly to European historical studies.

Throughout her career, Carrère d’Encausse dedicated herself to historical research and public service, blending her scholarly expertise with active participation in French political life. Her dual roles as both historian and politician reflected her commitment to bringing historical insight into contemporary affairs, demonstrating how knowledge of the past could inform present-day decision-making.

On August 5, 2023, Carrère d’Encausse passed away in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, leaving behind a legacy of scholarship and service. She was laid to rest at Montparnasse Cemetery, one of Paris’s most distinguished burial grounds, where many of France’s notable figures are remembered. Her life’s work continues to influence those studying European history and politics.