Peder Schumacher (Schumacher Peder)

(1635-1699)
Born in Copenhagen, the son of German vintner August 24, 1635. Many traveled to Europe, studied at Leyden, and Queens College, Oxford. In 1663, after returning to Denmark, was appointed royal librarian. Thanks to his friendship with Christopher Gabel in 1665, was promoted to Secretary Frederick III. In 1670 received the title of Count Griffenfelda, in 1674 became chancellor. As chancellor, a policy of wide-ranging reforms, part of which was the establishment of the Department of Foreign Trade and the decision of the financial problems of Denmark. In 1670-1676 almost entirely focused on foreign policy, has made complex maneuvers to isolate Sweden and France. During the Dutch War, 1672-1678 Schumacher followed a policy of neutrality, hoping to reap the benefits as French subsidies, and friendship with Sweden, but Christian V resisted this policy, and attacked Sweden (TN. Skonskaya War 1675-1679). On land, the Danish army suffered defeat, but the sea Niels Yul achieved several victories. In 1676 as a result of court intrigues and military failures, the responsibility for which was given to Schumacher, he was accused of treason and bribery and sentenced to death. Already on the scaffold was pardoned by Christian, but remained in prison in Trondheim until his death March 12, 1699.