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Friedrich AkelEstonian statesman, diplomat, physician
Date of Birth: 05.09.1871
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Content:
Early Life and Medical Career
Friedrich Akel was born in Estonia and pursued his medical education at the University of Tartu (then known as the University of Dorpat). After completing his studies, he embarked on internships in Berlin, Prague, and Leipzig from 1899 to 1901. He specialized in ophthalmology and practiced as a physician in various hospitals, including the Universitätsklinik in Tartu, the Ophthalmological Clinic in Riga, and the Ujazdów Hospital in Warsaw.
Political Involvement
In addition to his medical career, Akel also became involved in civic affairs. He served as a member of the Tallinn City Council, where he held the position of chairman. He was also a honorary magistrate and a member of the governing body of the North Baltic Union of Physicians.
Diplomatic Career
In 1922, Akel began his diplomatic career as Estonia's ambassador to Finland. He subsequently served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1923 to 1924, 1926 to 1927, and 1936 to 1938. In 1924, he briefly held the office of State Elder, which was the equivalent of head of state. During his tenure, the government faced an unsuccessful coup attempt by communists on December 1, 1924.
Later Career and Arrest
After his time as Foreign Minister, Akel served as ambassador to Sweden and Denmark from 1928 to 1934 and to Germany and the Netherlands from 1934 to 1936. He was also an elected member of the Riigikogu, Estonia's parliament, and played an active role in the Estonian Olympic Committee.
In 1940, Akel was arrested by the Soviet authorities and executed in 1941.
