Ole von Beust, German lawyer and politician, 1st Mayor of Hamburg

Ole von Beust, born on April 13, 1955, is a distinguished former German politician whose career was marked by significant leadership roles, most notably as the First Mayor of Hamburg. His tenure at the helm of Germany's second-largest city, which also holds the status of a federal state, spanned nearly a decade. From October 31, 2001, until August 25, 2010, von Beust guided Hamburg through various developments, steering its administration and representing its interests on both national and international stages. During this period, the First Mayor of Hamburg holds a position equivalent to a state premier, making him a prominent figure in German federalism.

A testament to his standing within the German political landscape, Ole von Beust also held the prestigious office of President of the Bundesrat. This crucial role, which rotates annually among the heads of Germany's sixteen federal states, saw him preside over the legislative body representing the Länder (states) from November 1, 2007, for a full year. The President of the Bundesrat is a high-ranking official, third in the order of precedence after the Federal President and the President of the Bundestag, underscoring the importance of this position in the German constitutional framework.

Following his departure from the First Mayoralty, Ole von Beust was succeeded by Christoph Ahlhaus. His nearly nine years of service left a lasting impact on Hamburg's political and social fabric.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ole von Beust

Who is Ole von Beust?

Ole von Beust, born April 13, 1955, is a former German politician best known for serving as the First Mayor of Hamburg and as President of the Bundesrat.

What was Ole von Beust's primary political role?

His primary and most extended political role was as the First Mayor of Hamburg, a position he held from October 31, 2001, to August 25, 2010. As First Mayor, he was the head of government for the city-state of Hamburg.

What is the Bundesrat and when did he serve as its President?

The Bundesrat is Germany's federal council, representing the sixteen federal states (Länder) at the national level. Ole von Beust served as its President for one year, starting on November 1, 2007. This role rotates among the state premiers.

Who succeeded Ole von Beust as First Mayor of Hamburg?

Christoph Ahlhaus succeeded Ole von Beust as the First Mayor of Hamburg after his tenure concluded on August 25, 2010.