 |
Karl KobeltSwiss politician, president.
Date of Birth: 01.08.1891
Country:  Switzerland |
Content:
Karl Kobelt: Swiss Engineer and Politician
Karl Kobelt was a Swiss politician and president who served as a member of the Federal Council from 1940 to 1954. He was a civil engineer by profession and held various positions in the government of the Canton of St. Gallen before being elected to the Federal Council.
Early Career
Born in 1892, Kobelt earned a doctorate in engineering in 1917. He worked as a water engineer in the Federal Office of Water Resources from 1919 to 1933. During this time, he led the department responsible for regulating lakes.
In 1933, Kobelt was elected to the government of St. Gallen, where he served as president in 1936 and 1937. He headed the Department of Public Works and oversaw several major projects, including the regulation of the Rhine River, the reclamation of the Linth Valley, and the expansion of transportation infrastructure and hospitals.
Political Career
Kobelt was elected to the National Council (Swiss parliament) in 1939 and to the Federal Council in 1940. He held the position of President of Switzerland in 1946 and 1952.
As President of the Federal Council, Kobelt played a key role in adjusting Switzerland's national defense to the new geostrategic situation following World War II. He promoted the transition to a mobile defensive army, necessitating revisions to military organization and equipment.
Post-Presidency
Kobelt retired from the Federal Council in 1954 and served on the boards of directors of two metallurgical companies. He remained an active voice in Swiss politics and public life until his death in 1968.
Legacy
Karl Kobelt was a highly respected politician and engineer who made significant contributions to Switzerland during a period of great change. He was known for his pragmatic approach to problem-solving and his commitment to the well-being of the Swiss people.
