Scheel, Walter (välˈtər shāl) [key], 1919–, German political
leader, president of West Germany (1974–79). After serving in
World War II, Scheel became interested in politics and joined
the Free Democrats, a liberal party. In 1953 he entered the
Bundestag, or lower house of parliament, and he continued to be
reelected. Late in 1967 he became chairman of the Free
Democrats. When the Social Democrat–Free Democrat coalition
government was formed in 1969 by Chancellor Willy Brandt, Scheel
became foreign minister and vice chancellor. As foreign minister
he helped improve relations with East Germany and the Soviet
Union. He later (1974–79) served as President, a largely
ceremonial office. The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed.
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