Hanusch, Ferdinand#
b. Horni Ves, Czech Republic (then Oberdorf), Nov. 9, 1866, d. Vienna, Sept. 28, 1923, Social-Democratic politician, co-founder of social policy in Austria, working class poet, originally silk weaver. From 1891 took an active part in the working-class movement, in 1900 became secretary of the union of textile workers, 1907-1918 was member of the Reichsrat, 1918-1919 member of the Provisional National Assembly, 1919-1920 member of the Constituent National Assembly; 1920-1923 member of the Nationalrat; 1918-1920 Staatssekretaer for social care and administration. Built up the ministry of social affairs and introduced social legislation, which became a model for other states. Introduced laws regarding the eight-hour working day, the works council, holidays for workers, the collective contract and the extension of social security services. In 1921 became chairman of the Chamber of Labour in Vienna. His literary works are distinguished by a very humanitarian and critical spirit. The "H. Hospital" (the former Rainer Hospital) in the 14th district of Vienna is named after him.
Works#
stories and sketches (Auf der Walze, 1907); socially critical plays (Die Enterbten, 1910; Der Bauernphilosoph, 1913). - Parlament und Arbeiterschutz, 1913; Sozialpolitik im neuen Oesterreich, 1923.Literature#
O. Staininger (ed.), F. H., ein Leben fuer den soz. Aufstieg, 1973.