Thorvald August Marinus Stauning (Danish: [ˈtsʰɒːˌvælˀ ˈstɑwne̝ŋ]; 26 October 1873 in Copenhagen – 3 May 1942) was the first social democratic prime minister of Denmark.

It is often proposed that the long-lived coalition cabinet actively averted the communist and fascist movements that were sweeping much of Europe from developing a strong following in Denmark.

[4] The settlement, which was named after Stauning's apartment in Kanslergade in Copenhagen, included extensive agricultural subsidies and reforms of the legislation and administration in the social sector.

Stauning believed that cooperating with the German authorities would prevent harsher measures and maintain a semblance of Danish self-governance.

Resistance movements within Denmark viewed its policies as capitulation, leading to increased tensions between the government and underground groups.

Over time, Stauning's health declined, and he died in 1942, leaving his successors to navigate the complex relationship with the occupying forces.

The Danish government's collaboration continued under new leadership, but resistance efforts grew stronger, culminating in greater opposition to Nazi policies and significant acts of sabotage.

This period of widespread social malaise was fertile ground for leaders who could communicate a confident and coherent vision to the masses.