Pieter Oud, Netherlands (1886-1968)
Pieter Oud is regarded as one of the founding fathers of Dutch Liberalism. At the beginning of the century Oud was active in the Liberal Youth Organisation (Liberale Jongeren Organisatie) and then the Liberal Democratic Alliance (Vrijzinnig Democratische Bond) with whom he went on to become the youngest MP in Dutch history.
After being nominated as Mayor of Rotterdam he retreated from national politics despite requests for him to join the government.
The German invasion of the Netherlands cut short Oud's political career and he was forced to resign. During the German occupation Oud was taken hostage for a short time in St Michielsgestel. After his release he wrote constitutional and parliamentary historical work.
Following the end of World War II Oud joined the Labour Party (Partij van de Arbeid) only to leave them in 1947. In January 1948 Oud took part in the meeting that was to found the VVD. Oud became leader of the new party and was returned as an MP.
Oud resigned his presidency of the VVD in November 1963 and became Minister of State and honorary president of the VVD. However he continued to be active in politics.