Franco Maria Malfatti

Franco Maria Malfatti (1927-1991) was an influential Italian politician and the first Italian to serve as the President of the European Commission, a position he held from 1970 to 1972. Known for his ambition and commitment to European integration, Malfatti's political career was marked by his attempt to bridge national interests with broader European goals. However, he famously resigned from the Commission to pursue a political career in Italy, a decision that did not yield the success he hoped for. His legacy reflects the complexities of European politics and the challenges faced by leaders in balancing domestic and international responsibilities.