As one drives along the most monument filled area of the Ringstrasse, one may notice that part of the famous street as well as two statues remember Karl Leuger.
As opposed to the extremes of others of the time, Karl Leuger, was a more pragmatic “Schwarz-gelb,” a believer in Austria with populist ideals at the turn of the century. An opportunist, Leuger changed to the democratic camp and used anti-Semitism to promote Vienna’s native son to higher offices. He quickly broke with anti-Semitic extremism of Schönerer to create the Christian Socialist Party, centered on the interest of “little men” and “Greater Austria.” However, he did continue to support the Germanic supremesist, Guido von List.
His time in office as mayor of Vienna (1897 to 1910) was highlighted by improvements in city living: construction of public buildings; development of the tramway systems; the Wiener Hochquellwasserleitung, which still brings fresh water from nearby the mountains; and the creation of a greenbelt of meadows and forests around the city.
However, Leuger’s policies slid in to dictatorship as the people worshiped their new hero, leaving a legacy that is said to have led the way to Austro-Fascism and even Hitler's reign of terror.
As one hymn sung his praises:
Let us praise the hero, who leads us in the fight.
Joyfully show him praise and thanks which are his due.
Let us also raise our hands in prayer,
May God make us victorious, wherever his banner flies.
