My research into the Dreyfus Affair reveals its particular significance not only for its time (1894-1906) but also for today’s France. It is still pertinent for France, and the rest of the world can learn from this affair. Charles Péguy, a French poet, said that this political scandal which rocked the justice system of France is like a ghost that keeps coming back to haunt us. Many consequences of this affair -- political, social, international, and media-related – continue to mark the modern world.
My presentation explores 1) an introduction and timeline of the affair, 2) the division of public opinion between what were known as the Dreyfusards and Anti-Dreyfusards, 3) social implications and consequences for the Jews because of the affair, 4) political implications and the history of the far right in France, 5) Press and Media, which gave a breeding ground for demonstrations and political activism in France and 6) a conclusion of what we can learn from this and how we can move forward. Having travelled to France twice and done homestays in different regions, including in one of the cities where Dreyfus was on trial, I hope to reveal some of France rich and complex history.