Allen I. Olson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Allen I. Olson
|
|
|---|---|
Allen Olson in 1981
|
|
| 28th Governor of North Dakota | |
| In office January 6, 1981 – January 1, 1985 |
|
| Lieutenant | Ernest Sands |
| Preceded by | Art Link |
| Succeeded by | George Sinner |
| 25th Attorney General of North Dakota | |
| In office 1973–1980 |
|
| Governor | Art Link |
| Preceded by | Helgi Johanneson |
| Succeeded by | Robert Wefald |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Allen Ingvar Olson
November 5, 1938 Rolla, North Dakota, U.S. |
| Died | December 26, 2025 (aged 87) |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Barbara Benner Olson |
| Children | 3 |
| Profession | Lawyer |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch |  United States Army |
| Service years | 1963–1967 |
| Unit | U.S. Army JAG Corps |
Allen Ingvar Olson (born November 5, 1938 – died December 26, 2025) was an important American politician and lawyer. He was a member of the Republican Party. Olson served as the 28th governor of North Dakota from 1981 to 1985. Before becoming governor, he was the Attorney General for North Dakota for two terms. He was known for his work in law and public service.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Allen Olson was born on November 5, 1938, in Rolla, a small town in North Dakota. He grew up and later went to the University of North Dakota. There, he studied law and earned his law degree. This education prepared him for a career in legal work and public service.
Serving in the Military and Law
After finishing his studies, Olson joined the United States Army. He worked as a lawyer in the Judge Advocate General's Corps. This special group provides legal services for the military. In 1967, he became the Chief of Military Justice in Munich, Germany.
When he returned, Olson worked for the Legislative Research Committee from 1967 to 1969. He helped lead the first study in North Dakota about how to manage surface mining and reclaim land. This work focused on protecting the environment. In 1969, he started working as a private lawyer. Later, in 1972, he successfully ran for Attorney General of North Dakota. He served two terms in this important legal role.
Becoming North Dakota's Governor
In 1980, Allen Olson decided to run for governor of North Dakota. He won the election, defeating the sitting Governor, Arthur A. Link. Olson became the 28th Governor of North Dakota on January 6, 1981. He served one term, which lasted until January 1, 1985.
Key Actions as Governor
During his time as governor, Olson achieved several important things. He helped create the Department of Human Services. This department works to support the well-being of people in North Dakota. He also helped turn the Cross-Ranch into a state park, preserving a beautiful natural area.
Governor Olson also focused on important issues like road safety. He supported a task force that worked to prevent people from driving when they were not able to drive safely. He also backed the Garrison Diversion program, which was a large project for water management. During his term, there were discussions and a lawsuit about state services for people with special needs.
After His Time as Governor
After leaving the governor's office in 1985, Olson returned to being a lawyer in Bismarck, North Dakota. A year later, he moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, and joined a different law firm. In 1987, he became a co-owner of a manufacturing company that made parts using a process called die casting.
He also spent many years leading an association for community banks. In 2002, President George W. Bush appointed him as a commissioner for the International Joint Commission. This commission helps Canada and the United States manage shared water resources. In 2010, Olson publicly supported Tom Horner in the Minnesota governor's election.
Family Life
Allen Olson was married to Barbara Benner Olson. They had three children together. Allen I. Olson passed away on December 26, 2025, at the age of 87.
 | Aaron Henry |
 | T. R. M. Howard |
 | Jesse Jackson |
