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Rudolf KirchschlagerAustrian politician, diplomat
Date of Birth: 20.03.1915
Country:  Austria |
Content:
- Rudolf Kirchschläger: A Statesman and Diplomat
- Wartime Experience
- From Judiciary to Diplomacy
- Ambassador Extraordinary
- Minister of Foreign Affairs and Presidency
- Legacy
Rudolf Kirchschläger: A Statesman and Diplomat
Early Life and EducationBorn in Niederkappel, Upper Austria, Rudolf Kirchschläger was orphaned at the tender age of 11. He excelled at Horne Gymnasium, graduating with honors. Kirchschläger enrolled in law at the University of Vienna but was forced to abandon his studies after the Anschluss. Refusing to join the Nazi Party, he lost his scholarship and could not afford to continue his education.
Wartime Experience
From 1938 to 1939, Kirchschläger worked as a bank clerk. In 1939, he was conscripted into the Wehrmacht's infantry. While on a two-month leave in 1940, he prepared for his final law exams, passing with a doctorate in law. Despite his academic achievements, he was returned to the Eastern Front, where he sustained injuries in 1942. By war's end, he had attained the rank of captain and served as an instructor at a military academy. In April 1945, he commanded a cadet battalion against Soviet forces and was severely wounded in the leg, an injury that would hamper him for the rest of his life.
From Judiciary to Diplomacy
After the war, Kirchschläger served as a judge in Langenlois and Vienna until 1954. Despite having no foreign language skills, he joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1954. To assist in Austrian independence negotiations, he studied English intensively and mastered the language in a matter of months.
Ambassador Extraordinary
Kirchschläger served as ambassador to Prague from 1967 to 1970. His actions during the Prague Spring were particularly notable. Despite orders not to, he issued emergency exit visas to Czechs seeking to leave the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Presidency
From 1970 to 1974, Kirchschläger served as Minister of Foreign Affairs. In 1974, he was elected President of Austria. He was reelected in 1980 with a record-breaking 80% of the vote. Kirchschläger's presidency was marked by his commitment to neutrality and his role as a respected international statesman.
Legacy
Rudolf Kirchschläger passed away in Vienna in 2000. He left behind a legacy of integrity, service, and diplomatic brilliance. His contributions to Austrian and international affairs remain etched in the nation's history.
