Manfred Rommel
Manfred Rommel (October 24, 1928 – November 7, 2013) was a German politician of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). He was the son of Erwin Rommel, a field marshal in the Wehrmacht during World War II and the Mayor of Stuttgart from 1974 to 1996.
Early life and education Rommel was born in Stuttgart, Germany, on October 24, 1928. His father, Erwin Rommel, was a field marshal in the Wehrmacht during World War II and was known as the "Desert Fox". His mother, Lucie Maria Mollin, was a housewife. Rommel had two younger sisters, Gertrud and Heiderose.
Rommel grew up in a military family and attended the National Political Institutes of Education (NAPOLA) in Backnang and Rottweil. After graduating from NAPOLA, he served in the Wehrmacht for two years. He was captured by the Americans in 1945 and held as a prisoner of war until 1946.
After the war, Rommel studied law and political science at the University of Tübingen. He graduated in 1951 and worked as a lawyer in Stuttgart.
Political career Rommel joined the CDU in 1953. He was elected to the Stuttgart City Council in 1956 and served until 1974. He was also a member of the Baden-Württemberg Landtag from 1964 to 1974.
In 1974, Rommel was elected Mayor of Stuttgart. He served for four terms, until 1996. During his time as Mayor, Rommel oversaw the construction of the new Stuttgart Trade Fair and the modernization of the city's public transportation system. He also promoted cultural and educational initiatives, such as the founding of the Stuttgart Ballet and the International Bach Academy.
Rommel was a popular and respected figure in Stuttgart. He was known for his honesty, integrity, and commitment to the city. He was also a strong advocate for European integration and played a leading role in the Städtepartnerschaft (city partnership) program between Stuttgart and other cities in Europe.
After retiring as Mayor, Rommel continued to be active in public life. He was a member of the German-French Friendship Association and the European Academy of Sciences and Arts. He also wrote several books, including his memoirs, "Die Macht der Vernunft" (The Power of Reason).
Rommel died in Stuttgart on November 7, 2013, at the age of 85. He was survived by his wife, Liselotte, and their three children, Catherine, Michael, and Thomas.
Legacy Manfred Rommel is remembered as a successful politician and a dedicated public servant. He was a strong advocate for democracy, European integration, and cultural understanding. He also made significant contributions to the development of Stuttgart, both as Mayor and as a private citizen.
Rommel's legacy is one of leadership, integrity, and commitment to the common good. He was a role model for many people, both in Germany and abroad, and his work continues to inspire others to make a positive difference in the world.
