About
Guido Westerwelle was a German politician who served as Foreign Minister in Angela Merkel's second cabinet and as Vice-Chancellor of Germany from 2009 to 2011. He also led the Free Democratic Party (FDP) from 2001 until 2011. Westerwelle was the first openly gay person to hold such high-ranking positions in the German government. A lawyer by profession, he was a member of the Bundestag for many years.
Career Timeline
Elected to Bundestag
Enters German Parliament, early career. Small beginning.
FDP Party Chairman
Leads FDP. Important position.
Foreign Minister and Vice-Chancellor
Appointed to high-ranking government roles. Career peak.
Resigns as Party Chairman
Steps down. Less influence.
Leaves Bundestag
Ends tenure in Parliament. End of political life.
Death Due to Leukemia
Passes away after long battle. End of life.
Legacy as Politician
Remembered for leading FDP and foreign policy. Legacy endures.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 23, 2026