Konrad Adenauer
Konrad Adenauer, the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany (1949-1963), anchored West Germany firmly in the Western alliance and the emerging European community, making the twin commitments to NATO and European integration the foundations of post-war German foreign policy. His 'policy of strength' — refusing to recognise the GDR or accept the post-war borders as permanent until reunification — maintained the aspiration for German unity while accepting the practical reality of division. His reconciliation with France, culminating in the Elysée Treaty of 1963, was the cornerstone of European integration and one of the most consequential acts of post-war European statesmanship.
- Lived: 1876 CE – 1967 CE
- Nationality: German
- Roles: chancellor, head_of_government, founding_father
