author
Gerard Cooreman
1852–1926
A Belgian lawyer, financier, and Catholic politician, he briefly led Belgium as prime minister in 1918 during the final stretch of World War I. His career joined public service with business and social reform, making him a notable figure in early 20th-century Belgian politics.
1 Audiobook
The Martyrdom of Belgium Official Report of Massacres of Peaceable Citizens, Women and Children by The German Army
by des lois et des coutumes de la guerre Belgium. Commission d'enquête sur la violation des règles du droit des gens, Gerard Cooreman
About the author
Born in Ghent on March 25, 1852, Gérard Cooreman trained in law and began his career as a lawyer, though he was also active in finance and industry. He became closely involved with Catholic social circles, a connection that helped shape both his political outlook and his public reputation.
Cooreman entered national politics in the late 19th century and served for many years as a representative of the Catholic Party. Over time he took on major responsibilities, including service as president of the Belgian Chamber of Representatives. He was known as a steady establishment figure rather than a flamboyant one, with experience that crossed government, business, and public administration.
He is best remembered for serving as Prime Minister of Belgium from June to November 1918, in the closing months of World War I. Though his time in the top office was brief, it placed him at the center of Belgian political life at a critical moment. He died in Brussels on December 2, 1926.