Richard von Weizsäcker, German soldier and politician, 6th President of Germany (d. 2015)

Richard Karl Freiherr von Weizsäcker, whose German name is pronounced [ˈʁɪçaʁt fɔn ˈvaɪtszɛkɐ], was a towering figure in German politics, serving as President of Germany from 1984 to 1994. Born on 15 April 1920 and passing away on 31 January 2015, Weizsäcker hailed from the distinguished aristocratic Weizsäcker family, a lineage deeply embedded in German nobility. His early public life saw him engage with the Evangelical Church in Germany, a path that subtly yet profoundly shaped his later political and moral convictions.

Joining the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in 1954, Weizsäcker steadily rose through the ranks. He first entered the national political arena as a Member of Parliament (Bundestag) following the 1969 elections. His commitment and capability soon led him to a pivotal role as Governing Mayor of West Berlin, a position he assumed after the 1981 state elections. This was a particularly sensitive and crucial office during the Cold War, as West Berlin stood as a beacon of democracy in a divided city, requiring astute leadership and a clear vision.

Presidency and German Reunification

In 1984, Richard von Weizsäcker was elected as President of the Federal Republic of Germany. His leadership and widespread respect were affirmed when he was overwhelmingly re-elected in 1989 for a second five-year term. Notably, Weizsäcker shares an exclusive distinction with Theodor Heuss as the only two Presidents of the Federal Republic of Germany to have completed two full five-year terms. His second term, beginning in 1989, coincided with one of the most transformative periods in modern German history: reunification. On 3 October 1990, the five reorganized states of the German Democratic Republic, along with East Berlin, formally acceded to the Federal Republic of Germany. This historic event instantly transformed Weizsäcker into the President of a reunified Germany, a role he embraced with dignity and foresight, helping to knit together a nation long divided.

A Moral Compass and Eloquent Voice

Richard von Weizsäcker is widely regarded as Germany's most popular president, a reputation he earned through his unwavering impartiality and a profound sense of public duty. His principled stance often placed him in constructive tension with some of his own party colleagues, including the influential long-serving Chancellor Helmut Kohl. This independence from partisan politics further cemented his image as a president who transcended daily political squabbles to uphold national values.

He was particularly renowned for his powerful and reflective speeches, none more impactful than the address he delivered on 8 May 1985. This date marked the 40th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe. In this landmark speech, Weizsäcker courageously confronted Germany's past, declaring that 8 May was not a day of defeat but a "day of liberation" – liberation from the dehumanizing system of Nazi tyranny. He emphasized that every German generation must acknowledge its history and take responsibility for it, fostering a new, self-critical understanding of the nation's past. This speech resonated deeply within Germany and across the world, significantly contributing to the nation's process of coming to terms with its darkest chapter and charting a path forward based on reconciliation and remembrance.

Upon his passing in 2015, his life and extensive political contributions were universally praised. Tributes poured in from around the globe, with The New York Times notably lauding him as "a guardian of his nation's moral conscience," a testament to his enduring legacy as a voice of reason, reconciliation, and moral leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Richard von Weizsäcker?

Richard von Weizsäcker was a prominent German politician from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) who served as President of Germany from 1984 to 1994. He is remembered for his moral leadership and for overseeing German reunification.

What was Richard von Weizsäcker's most famous speech?

His most famous and impactful speech was delivered on 8 May 1985, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. In it, he called the day a "day of liberation" and urged Germans to confront their history honestly.

How long did he serve as President of Germany?

He served for two complete five-year terms, from 1984 to 1994, making him one of only two German presidents to achieve this milestone.

What was his role in German reunification?

During his second term, Germany reunified on 3 October 1990, making him the first President of a unified Germany since the division. He played a crucial symbolic and unifying role during this historic transition.

Why was Richard von Weizsäcker considered so popular?

He was admired for his unwavering impartiality, moral integrity, and ability to rise above partisan politics. His eloquence and principled stands, particularly on historical responsibility, earned him widespread respect across the political spectrum.

What was Richard von Weizsäcker's family background?

He was born into the aristocratic Weizsäcker family, a distinguished lineage part of the German nobility. This background likely influenced his sense of duty and public service.