Alexander Langer is considered one of the fathers of European environmentalism, known for his work as a journalist, peace activist, politician, translator, and teacher. He gained recognition in the 1970s as a prominent peace and environmental activist in Italy and in the Balkans. Langer's influence grew nationally as a member of the Federation of the Greens, and he served as a Member of the European Parliament from 1989 until his passing in 1995.