Lauri Ingman held the office of Prime Minister of Finland twice, overseeing the nation during two distinct periods between 1918 and 1925. A scholar of Lutheran theology, his career spanned the academic lecture hall, the parliamentary floor, and the ecclesiastical leadership of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church until his death in 1934.
Academic and Theological Foundation
Born in Teuva on 30 June 1868, Lauri Johannes Ingman pursued his higher education at the University of Helsinki. He earned several academic distinctions, including a Bachelor of Philosophy, as well as a Bachelor, Licentiate, and Doctor of Theology. In 1906, he took on the role of editor for the Christian publication Vartija. Between 1916 and 1930, he served as a professor of practical theology at the University of Helsinki, where he shaped future generations of Lutheran pastors.
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Ingman held a seat in the Parliament of Finland across several terms: from 1907 to 1919, 1922 to 1927, and again from 1927 to 1929. During his extensive political tenure, he served as the Speaker of the Parliament in 1918. A member of the National Coalition Party, his executive experience included two terms as Prime Minister: his first cabinet lasted from 1918 to 1919, and his second cabinet governed from 1924 to 1925.
Ecclesiastical Leadership and Honours
In 1930, Ingman ascended to the position of Archbishop of Turku and Finland, acting as the head of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. His public service earned him several state and international decorations. He received the Grand Cross of the Order of the White Rose of Finland and the Cross of Liberty, 1st Class with star, both in 1919. Additionally, he held the Commanders Grand Cross of the Order of the Polar Star. In 1932, the University of Uppsala conferred upon him an honorary doctorate. He died in Turku on 25 October 1934 and is buried at the Hietaniemi cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 30 June 1868, Teuva
- Died: 25 October 1934, Turku
- Academic position: Professor of practical theology (1916–1930)
- Prime Minister terms: 1918–1919 and 1924–1925
- Archbishop of Turku and Finland: 1930–1934
- Education: University of Helsinki
- Religion: Lutheranism
- Burial site: Hietaniemi cemetery
Questions readers ask
What were Lauri Ingman's primary professional roles?
He worked as a teacher, university professor, Lutheran pastor, theologian, and politician.
How many times did Lauri Ingman serve as Prime Minister?
He served as Prime Minister of Finland twice, once from 1918 to 1919 and again from 1924 to 1925.
