At the age of 40 years and 92 days, Themptander is the youngest person to become Prime Minister in Swedish history.

After law studies in Uppsala and a highly successful career in the civil service he became in 1879 a member of the Second Chamber.

[citation needed] Through good contacts in different parliamentary positions he was successful in breaking the political gridlock concerning the defense question.

He was less successful in his goal to protect the free trade system which Louis De Geer and Minister of Finance Johan August Gripenstedt had instituted during their time in office.

Riksdag candidates were compelled to answer about which views they had, if they were Free Traders or Protectionists.

Lifelong members of the Riksdag had previously been elected on the basis of their high personal reputation and confidence.