Aleksander Tõnisson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Aleksander Tõnisson
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| Born | 17 April 1875 Pööra, Härjanurme Parish, Kreis Dorpat, Governorate of Livonia, Russian Empire (now Pööra, Jõgeva Parish, Estonia) |
| Died | 30 June 1941 (aged 66) Tallinn, Estonia |
| Allegiance |  Russian Empire Estonia |
| Years of service | 1899–1917 Imperial Russian Army 1918–1934 Estonian Army |
| Rank | Kindralmajor |
| Unit | Imperial Russian Army Estonian Army |
| Battles/wars | Russo-Japanese war World War I Estonian War of Independence
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| Awards | Cross of Liberty |
Aleksander Tõnisson VR I/1 (17 April 1875 – 30 June 1941) was an Estonian military commander (Major General) during the Estonian War of Independence.
In 1899, he graduated from Vilnius Military Academy. Tõnisson participated in Russo-Japanese war and in World War I. In 1917, he participated in formation of Estonian national units and as commander of 1st Estonian regiment participated in battles at Riga front. In 1918, he escaped from German occupation to Finland, returned in autumn and became commander of 1st Division of Estonia. During the Estonian Liberation War, Tõnisson fought successfully at Viru Front. After war, he served twice as minister of defence, in 1934 he retired from military and was mayor of Tartu 1934–1939 and Lord Mayor (ülemlinnapea) of Tallinn from 1939 to 1940. In 1940, Soviet occupation authorities arrested Tõnisson and executed him the following year.
Honours and awards
- Order of St. Vladimir, 4th class; for distinguished service
- Cross of Liberty, first-class, first degree.
- Commander of the Order of the Cross of the Eagle
- Protection of Natural Amenities Medal, 2nd Rank
