Founded in 1826, Le Figaro holds the distinction of being the oldest national daily newspaper still in circulation in France. Named after the clever protagonist of Beaumarchais’ The Marriage of Figaro, the publication began as a satirical weekly before transitioning into a daily in 1866 under the direction of Hippolyte de Villemessant. Its storied history is deeply intertwined with French intellectual life; it famously published the Futurist Manifesto in 1909 and has counted literary giants like Marcel Proust and Émile Zola among its contributors.

In the modern political landscape, Le Figaro is recognized as the leading center-right voice of the French press. It serves as the "newspaper of record" for the country's conservative establishment, championing liberal economic values, traditional social structures, and a strong national identity. Its editorial stance is often contrasted with the center-left Le Monde, creating a balanced duo that defines much of the French political discourse. Beyond politics, the paper is highly regarded for its comprehensive cultural coverage and its "Le Figaro Économie" section.

Today, the newspaper is the flagship property of the Groupe Figaro, which has been owned by the Dassault family (of Dassault Aviation fame) since 2004. While maintaining its traditional print presence, it has successfully pivoted to a digital-first model, boasting one of the most-visited news websites in France. Through various supplements like Le Figaro Magazine and Madame Figaro, the publication remains a dominant force in French media, catering to an affluent and influential readership across the globe.