Frank Kellogg

Profession: US Secretary of State

Biography: Frank Kellogg was an American lawyer, politician, and statesman who made significant contributions to international peacekeeping efforts during the early 20th century. Serving as U.S. Secretary of State under President Calvin Coolidge, he was instrumental in developing and promoting modern methods of peaceful dispute resolution between nations.

Arguably, Kellogg's most noteworthy achievement was the 1928 Kellogg-Briand Pact, which he co-authored with French foreign minister Aristide Briand. This international agreement renounced the use of war and called for the peaceful settlement of disputes. Signed by 15 nations initially, it eventually garnered the signatures of 62 countries. The pact represented a significant move towards the concept of collective security, which sought to prevent war through the mutual agreement of nations.

Kellogg's work in the diplomatic field did not go unrecognized. In 1929, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work on the Kellogg-Briand Pact, cementing his legacy as a leading figure in the development of international diplomacy. Despite the later conflicts of the 20th century, his work still underpins much of international law today.

Born: December 22, 1856
Birthplace: Potsdam, New York, USA
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: December 21, 1937 (aged 80)
Cause of Death: Pneumonia