Theodore Christianson

Theodore Christianson (September 12, 1883 – December 9, 1948) was an American politician who served as the 21st Governor of Minnesota from January 6, 1925, until January 6, 1931.

Early life

Christianson was born in Lac qui Parle Township, Minnesota. He was of Norwegian descent. He attended Dawson High School. He graduated from the University of Minnesota, Arts College in 1906. Christianson graduated from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1909. He was admitted to the Minnesota State Bar in 1909. Before entering politics, Christianson had pursued dual careers in western Minnesota, where he both practiced law and was editor and publisher of the Dawson Sentinel for fifteen years. Five consecutive terms as a Republican state legislator convinced him that government reorganization was in order.

Career

"More Ted, Less Taxes" was the campaign promise of Theodore Christianson when he ran for governor in 1924. "Tightwad Ted," as he was affectionately dubbed, kept his word. During his administration, he limited taxes and cut expenditures at every level of state government. Voters—in a conservative mood after the turmoil of World War I—expressed their approval of his cautious fiscal policy and his disdain for socialism by re-electing him twice.

Theodore Christianson (judge)

Theodore Christianson (June 4, 1913 – September 19, 1955) was an American jurist.

Born in Dawson, Minnesota, Christianson graduated from University High School in 1931. He then received his bachelor's degree from University of Minnesota in 1935 and his law degree from University of Minnesota Law School in 1937. Christianson then practiced law in Saint Paul, Minnesota. During World War II, Christianson served in the United States Navy. His father was the Governor of Minnesota Theodore Christianson. Christianson served on the Minnesota Supreme Court from 1950 until his death in 1955. Christianson died suddenly of a heart attack at his home in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

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