André Maginot was born in Paris but raised in Elzas-Loraine, in the region where the fortresses would be build. After a study of law he started his career as an official in the colonies. Till 1909 he worked as assistant of the general governor. In 1910 Maginot discharged and started his career as politician. He was elected for the Meuse department

In 1914 he joined the army and in November he was heavily wounded near Verdun. After an operation he is partly handicapped
 

As from 1917 is becomes minister for colonial affaires and in 1930 he becomes minister of war. In January 1930 Maginot defence a law to build a fortress line in the North of France. The law is voted accepted by everyone. He dies is 1932 en the line gets his name. The Maginot line is born