A physician-turned-politician who served as the third President of Lithuania, known for his leadership during a tumultuous period in the country's history. He played a crucial role in shaping Lithuania's early years of independence.
Kazys Grinius, the third President of Lithuania, is best known for his unwavering dedication to his country and its people, as well as his courageous stance against Nazi occupation during World War II. He is also recognized for saving countless lives during the Holocaust, earning him the title of Righteous Among the Nations in 2016.
Born on December 17, 1866, in Selema, near Marijampol, Kazys Grinius grew up in a time of great turmoil and change in Lithuania. He studied medicine at the Imperial Moscow University, becoming a skilled physician who would later use his expertise to help those in need. As a young man, Grinius became involved in Lithuanian political activities, which led to persecution by the Tsarist authorities.
In 1896, Grinius co-founded the Lithuanian Democratic Party (LDP) and the Lithuanian Popular Peasants Union (LVLS) party. This marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to Lithuanian politics and his fight for independence. That same year, he married Joana Pavalkyt, with whom he had two children, Kazys and Graina.
When Lithuania regained its independence in 1918, Grinius became a member of the Constituent Assembly as a representative of the Lithuanian Popular Peasants Union party. He served as Prime Minister from 1920 to 1922, during which time he signed a treaty with the Soviet Union. This period was marked by great turmoil and upheaval, but Grinius remained steadfast in his commitment to his country.
In 1926, Grinius was elected President of Lithuania by the Third Seimas. However, his presidency was short-lived, as he was deposed in a coup led by Antanas Smetona just six months later. This coup was orchestrated under the pretext of an imminent communist plot to take over Lithuania.
When Nazi Germany invaded Lithuania in 1941, Grinius refused to collaborate with the occupying forces, citing his opposition to foreign occupation of any kind. This decision put him at great personal risk, but he remained steadfast in his convictions. During this time, he used his medical expertise to save countless Jewish lives, earning him the title of Righteous Among the Nations in 2016.
In 1918, Grinius suffered a devastating personal loss when his wife and daughter were murdered by Russian terrorists during a Red Army attack. Despite this tragedy, he continued to fight for his country and its people, putting their needs above his own.
Kazys Grinius's bravery and selflessness have inspired generations of Lithuanians. He was posthumously awarded the Lithuanian Life Saving Cross for his heroic actions during the Holocaust. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of courage and conviction in the face of overwhelming adversity.
"I will not betray my country, even if it means my own life."
Kazys Grinius's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up against oppression and fighting for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Born in 1874
Lithuania's first president, a key figure in the country's struggle for independence, known for his authoritarian rule and nationalist policies. He played a crucial role in shaping Lithuania's early years.
Born in 1885
A Lithuanian farmer-turned-politician who served as the country's second president, known for his efforts to establish a stable government and economy in the early 20th century. He's also remembered for his role in the country's struggle for independence from Soviet rule.
Born in 1882
A Lithuanian engineer and politician who played a key role in the country's struggle for independence and served as its prime minister from 1922 to 1924. He's also known for his work in developing Lithuania's infrastructure and economy.
