13 Facts About Karl Rolvaag

Karl Fritjof Rolvaag was an American diplomat and politician who served as the 31st governor of Minnesota from March 25,1963, to January 2,1967, as a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party.

Karl Rolvaag is one of only four Minnesota Democrats to win a gubernatorial election with a Democrat in the White House.

Karl Rolvaag then fought in World War II, rising to the rank of lieutenant and commanding a tank.

Karl Rolvaag was the first Minnesota governor to serve a four-year term, but due to continuous wrangling between him and the conservative-controlled legislature, there were few notable achievements during his term.

Karl Rolvaag is remembered for a leadership role in bringing reform to the state's institutions for the mentally disabled, leading to improved conditions and treatment for people with developmental disabilities.

Formerly, the local school board ran each college separately; Karl Rolvaag designed a coordinated statewide system with the goal of putting every Minnesotan within commuting distance of an institution of higher education.

Karl Rolvaag bitterly opposed significant expansion plans by the state colleges and vocally opposed designating a second state research university.

When Karl Rolvaag ran for reelection in 1966, his party did not endorse him, opting instead for Lieutenant Governor AM Keith.

In 1967, after leaving office, Karl Rolvaag was appointed United States Ambassador to Iceland by President Lyndon Johnson.

Karl Rolvaag returned to Minnesota in 1970 and was elected to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission.

Karl Rolvaag resigned that post in 1975 in order to seek treatment for alcoholism.

Karl Rolvaag stayed out of politics the rest of his life, but helped others work through their problems with alcoholism, attending meetings and giving talks in places as nearby as his hometown of Northfield and as far off as Sweden.

Karl Rolvaag died at his home in Northfield on December 20,1990, aged 77, having been ill with a heart condition.