Germany Berlin postage stamps year 1959 Professor Dr. Heuss MNH set
Theodor Heuss (1884–1963): First President of West Germany
Early Life & Education
- Born on January 31, 1884, in Brackenheim, Germany.
- Studied political science, history, and economics at universities in Munich and Berlin.
- Earned a doctorate in political science in 1905.
Political Career
- Initially a member of the Progressive People’s Party during the German Empire.
- Later joined the German Democratic Party (DDP) during the Weimar Republic.
- Elected to the Reichstag (Parliament) in 1924, serving until 1933.
Nazi Era (1933–1945)
- Opposed the Nazi regime but was unable to actively resist due to suppression.
- His writings were censored, and he was dismissed from teaching at the Hochschule für Politik in Berlin.
Post-War & Founding of the Federal Republic
- Helped establish the Free Democratic Party (FDP) in 1948.
- Became a key figure in drafting the Grundgesetz (Basic Law), Germany’s new constitution after WWII.
- On September 12, 1949, elected as the first President of the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany).
Presidency (1949–1959)
- Played a symbolic role in rebuilding Germany’s democracy.
- Worked to promote reconciliation with France and Israel after WWII.
- Advocated for education, culture, and democratic values.
- Re-elected in 1954 but declined a third term in 1959.
Later Years & Legacy
- Remained an important public intellectual after retiring from politics.
- Died on December 12, 1963, in Stuttgart.
- Remembered for his moderate leadership, promotion of democracy, and cultural contributions.
