“Stauning or Chaos.” Those words echoed through Denmark in the 1930s. They encapsulated the leadership of Thorvald Stauning. Here we stand before the Thorvald Stauning Sculpture. It is a tribute to a man who shaped modern Denmark.
The Thorvald Stauning Sculpture stands as a reminder of his impact. Stauning was born in Copenhagen in 1873. He rose from a working-class background to become Prime Minister. He held office from 1924 to 1926 and again from 1929 until his death in 1942.
Stauning began as a cigar sorter. He became involved in trade union activity. From 1896 to 1908, he led the Cigar Sorters’ Union. He was elected to Parliament in 1906. In 1910, he became chairman of the Social Democratic Party. He held that position until 1939.
As Prime Minister, Stauning led Denmark through the Great Depression. His government developed a social welfare state. This transformed the Social Democratic Party. It went from a class party to a popular party. Stauning’s coalition cabinet averted communist and fascist movements. These movements were sweeping across Europe.
In 1933, Stauning’s government reached the Kanslergade settlement. This agreement included agricultural subsidies and social sector reforms. The settlement was named after Stauning’s apartment.
Stauning successfully sought re-election three times. His slogan “Stauning or Chaos” resonated with voters. In 1935, his party won 46% of the vote. This was a record for any Danish party.
During the Nazi occupation of Denmark, Stauning adopted a policy of collaboration. He aimed to protect Danish sovereignty. He sought to minimize the impact of the occupation. This collaboration was controversial. Some viewed it as a pragmatic approach.
The Thorvald Stauning Sculpture was erected in 1964. August Keil created it. The Social Democratic Federation of Denmark gifted it. The sculpture stands on Staunings Plads. This square was once part of Hagemannsgade. It ran along the Boulevardbanen.
Stauning’s legacy remains positive in Denmark. He played a role in integrating Danish society. He limited the growth of populist parties. This included the Nazi party. His government laid the foundations for the Danish welfare state. He was given a state funeral in 1942. He is buried in Copenhagen’s Vestre Cemetery.
As you stand before the Thorvald Stauning Sculpture, consider his journey. From a cigar sorter to the leader of a nation. Remember his impact on Danish society and politics. The sculpture serves as a lasting tribute. It honors a man who led Denmark through challenging times.