Sicco Mansholt began his career as a tea plantation worker in the Dutch East Indies before returning to the Netherlands in 1936 to establish a farm in the Wieringermeer polder. This practical experience in agriculture provided the foundation for a political life that saw him become a pivotal figure in European integration and agricultural reform.
Wartime Resistance and Early Government Roles
During World War II, Mansholt participated in the Dutch resistance. He utilized his position in the Wieringermeerpolder to hide individuals in danger and managed clandestine food distribution networks for the western provinces. Following the liberation, he served briefly as the acting mayor of Wieringermeer in 1945. Shortly thereafter, Queen Wilhelmina appointed him as the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Supplies in the Cabinet Schermerhorn–Drees. He held this cabinet position for over a decade, serving through the Schermerhorn-Drees, Beel I, Drees-Van Schaik, and the three subsequent Drees administrations.
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In 1958, Mansholt transitioned to international politics as the first European Commissioner from the Netherlands. For fourteen years, he served as the European Commissioner for Agriculture. During this tenure, he spearheaded the modernization of agricultural practices across the continent and emerged as a primary architect of the Common Agricultural Policy. His influence extended to the highest levels of the European executive branch, eventually leading to his appointment as the President of the European Commission in 1972. The Mansholt Commission oversaw significant milestones, including the first enlargement of the European community on 1 January 1973 and the creation of the European Monetary System.
Legacy and Post-Political Engagement
After retiring from the European Commission in 1973, Mansholt remained active in public life as a consultant and board member. He lent his expertise to organizations such as the Club of Rome, the Institute of International Relations Clingendael, and the Carnegie Foundation. Throughout his retirement, he continued to contribute to discussions on political affairs and European integration. Recognized as a founding father of the European Union, he holds the distinction of being the only Dutch national to serve as President of the European Commission, alongside his record as the longest-serving European Commissioner for Agriculture.
Fast facts
- Born: 13 September 1908, Ulrum
- Died: 29 June 1995, Wapserveen
- Education: Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences
- Party Affiliation: SDAP and PvdA
- President of the European Commission: 1972–1973
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Supplies: 1945–1958
- Occupation: Politician, farmer, resistance fighter, agronomist
- Languages: Dutch, French
Questions readers ask
What were Mansholt's primary political roles in the Netherlands?
He served as a member of the House of Representatives multiple times and held the position of Minister of Agriculture for over a decade, along with a brief period as acting Minister of Economic Affairs.
Was Sicco Mansholt involved in agricultural policy outside of the Netherlands?
Yes, he served as the European Commissioner for Agriculture from 1958 to 1972, where he played a key role in developing the Common Agricultural Policy.
Achievements
- Educated at Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences
