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Oskar Leimgruber
Oskar Leimgruber.jpg
9th Chancellor of Switzerland
In office
1944–1951
Preceded by George Bovet
Succeeded by Charles Oser
Personal details
Born (1886-07-05)5 July 1886
Fribourg, Switzerland
Died 19 July 1976(1976-07-19) (aged 90)
Bern, Switzerland
Political party Christian Democratic People's Party (CVP)
Alma mater University of Fribourg
University of Bern
University of Vienna

Oskar Leimgruber was an important Swiss politician. He was born in Fribourg, Switzerland, on July 5, 1886, and passed away in Bern on July 19, 1976. He was a member of the Christian Democratic People's Party (CVP). From 1944 to 1951, he served as the 9th Chancellor of Switzerland, a very important role in the Swiss government.

Early Life and Education

Oskar Leimgruber was born in Fribourg, Switzerland. He studied law at universities in Fribourg, Bern, and Vienna. He earned his doctorate degree in law in 1911.

A Career in Public Service

Oskar Leimgruber had many different jobs throughout his life. He worked as a journalist for newspapers like La Liberté and Freiburger Zeitung. He was also a lawyer and helped manage a museum.

Working for the Railways

In 1912, he started working as a legal expert for the Swiss Federal Railways. This was an important job, helping with the legal side of Switzerland's train system.

Moving into Government

In 1919, Leimgruber became a key member of the Christian Democratic People's Party. He also became the general secretary for the federal department that handled postal services and railways.

Becoming Vice-Chancellor

In 1925, he was named Vice-Chancellor. In this role, he helped create the Federal printed matter and materials center, which managed government documents. He also represented Switzerland at many international meetings.

Founding New Organizations

In 1923, Oskar Leimgruber helped start two important organizations. He founded the International SME Union, which supports small and medium-sized businesses. He also founded and led the International Management Institute in Brussels. He wrote many books and articles about the economy, government, and society.

Federal Chancellor of Switzerland

In 1934, Leimgruber ran for Federal Chancellor but lost the election. However, nine years later, in 1943, he was elected to the position. He was the first Chancellor from the Catholic Conservative party.

Key Changes and Publications

As Chancellor, Leimgruber made an important change by introducing simultaneous translation of speeches in the National Council. This meant that speeches could be translated into different languages at the same time, making it easier for everyone to understand.

In 1948, for Switzerland's 100th anniversary, he helped edit two important books. These books were about the symbols, seals, and laws of Switzerland and its different regions.

Oskar Leimgruber resigned from his role as Chancellor in 1951. He passed away in Bern in 1976.

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