Lueger, Karl (kärl lü`gər), 1844–1910, Austrian politician. He was the leader of the Christian Social party. Lueger appealed to the lower middle classes of Vienna through his anti-Semitism, which was partly religious but mostly opportunist. He was elected mayor of Vienna in 1897, despite the initial opposition of Emperor Francis Joseph, and he held that post until his death. During his administration the public utilities and municipal parks of Vienna were expanded and improved. Lueger was primarily concerned with increasing the church's influence and getting votes. His views and tactics may have influenced the young Adolf Hitler, who then lived in Vienna.

Lueger, Karl

(born Oct. 24, 1844, Vienna, Austria—died March 10, 1910, Vienna) Austrian politician. He was elected to the Vienna city council (1875) and to the Austrian parliament (1885), and he cofounded the Christian Social Party (1889). He effectively used the prevalent anti-Semitic and German nationalist currents in Vienna to advance his political objectives. He was elected mayor of Vienna in 1895 and transformed the Austrian capital into a modern city, bringing streetcars, electricity, and gas under city government control. He also developed parks, schools, and hospitals. He was instrumental in introducing universal suffrage in Austria (1907).