Teis Lundegaard

In the confusion of international affairs at the end of the Napoleonic wars, the Norwegians rejected the peace treaty of Kiel in 1814, by which Norway was ceded to Sweden after having been in union with Denmark since 1380.

Teis Lundegaard was elected representative for Lister Amt (now Vest-Agder) to the Constitutional Assembly which met at Eidsvoll.

With his great self-assurance and common sense, he became one of the leading spokesmen for the farmers in the parliament at a time when this social group lacked in political experience and self-confidence.

Many stories are told about his wit and humor, as well as his fearlessness and stubbornness, which made him a feared and respected political opponent.

On a trip out to the out-house toilets, which were reached by planks placed on the muddy earth, he met a city politician on the boards.