Hannes Hafstein facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hannes Hafstein
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| Minister for Iceland | |
| In office 1 February 1904 – 31 March 1909 |
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| Preceded by | Position established |
| Succeeded by | Björn Jónsson |
| In office 25 July 1912 – 21 July 1914 |
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| Preceded by | Kristján Jónsson |
| Succeeded by | Sigurður Eggerz |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 4 December 1861 Hörgárdalur, Iceland |
| Died | 13 December 1922 (aged 61) Reykjavík, Iceland |
| Political party | Home Rule Party and Union Party |
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Hannes Þórður Pétursson Hafstein (born December 4, 1861 – died December 13, 1922) was an important Icelandic politician and a talented poet. He made history in 1904 when he became the very first Icelander to be appointed as the minister for Iceland in the Danish Cabinet. This was a big step for Iceland because, unlike previous ministers, Hannes was responsible to the Icelandic Althing (which is like Iceland's parliament).
Contents
A Look at Hannes Hafstein's Life
Hannes was born on a farm called Möðruvellir in the beautiful Hörgárdalur valley. His father, Pétur Havstein, was a Governor in Iceland, and his mother was Kristjana Gunnarsdóttir Havstein.
Education and Early Career
Hannes finished his national grammar school in 1880. He then went on to study law at the University of Copenhagen, earning his law degree in 1886.
Political Journey and Leadership
Hannes was an active member of the Althing (Iceland's parliament) for many years. He served from 1900 to 1901, then from 1903 to 1915, and again from 1916 to 1922. His last meeting in parliament was in 1917.
On February 1, 1904, Hannes became the first-ever Minister for Iceland. He held this important position until March 31, 1909. After that, he became the managing director of the Bank of Iceland.
In 1912, he was chosen as the speaker of the Althing. Soon after, he became Minister for Iceland for a second time, serving from July 24, 1912, to July 21, 1914. He then returned to his role as managing director at the bank.
Later Years and Legacy
By 1917, Hannes's health began to decline, and he had to step down from his duties. He passed away in Reykjavík on December 13, 1922.
In 1931, a statue of Hannes Hafstein was unveiled in Reykjavik. It was created by the famous sculptor Einar Jónsson. Einar Jónsson also designed the round decorations on the graves of Hannes and his wife.
Hannes Hafstein as a Poet
Besides his political career, Hannes Hafstein was also a well-loved poet. He mostly wrote poems in the national romantic style. His poems often included a touch of humor, and sometimes even a bit of satire. Hannes's poems were very popular with the Icelandic people, just like he was.
