Jan Terlouw

Jan Terlouw (2014)

Jan Terlouw

Jan Terlouw (born 15 November 1931) is a Dutch physicist, author, and politician. He is known for his work as a children's author and his contributions to Dutch politics. Terlouw has been a prominent figure in the Democrats 66 (D66) party and has held various significant positions in the Dutch government.

Early Life and Education

Jan Terlouw was born in Kamperveen, a small village in the Netherlands. He studied physics at Utrecht University, where he earned his degree in 1956. Terlouw later obtained a PhD in nuclear physics from the same university in 1964.

Career in Science

After completing his education, Terlouw worked as a researcher in nuclear physics. He was employed at the Dutch Institute for Nuclear Physics and High Energy Physics (NIKHEF) and later at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland.

Literary Career

Jan Terlouw is also a renowned author, particularly known for his children's literature. His most famous book, Winter in Wartime (Oorlogswinter), published in 1972, is set during World War II and has been adapted into a successful film. Another notable work is How to Become King (Koning van Katoren), published in 1971, which has also been adapted into a film.

Political Career

Terlouw entered politics in the early 1970s, joining the Democrats 66 (D66) party. He served as a member of the House of Representatives from 1971 to 1981. During his tenure, he was known for his advocacy on environmental issues and education.

In 1981, Terlouw became the Minister of Economic Affairs in the Van Agt II Cabinet. He held this position until 1982. From 1983 to 1991, he served as the Queen's Commissioner in the province of Gelderland.

Later Life and Legacy

After retiring from active politics, Terlouw continued to be involved in public life. He has been a vocal advocate for environmental sustainability and has written several books on the subject. Terlouw remains a respected figure in Dutch literature and politics.

Personal Life

Jan Terlouw is married and has four children. He continues to live in the Netherlands and remains active in writing and public speaking.

Selected Works

• Winter in Wartime (Oorlogswinter) - 1972
• How to Become King (Koning van Katoren) - 1971
• The Thirteenth Child (De Derde Kamer) - 1975

See Also

• Democrats 66
• House of Representatives (Netherlands)
• Minister of Economic Affairs (Netherlands)
• Queen's Commissioner
• Winter in Wartime
• How to Become King