Tage Erlander: Serving the Welfare State, 1946-1969

In the post-WW II era, Sweden, the model welfare state, reputedly enjoyed the world's highest standard of living. In a biography of interest mainly to students of Swedish history, we follow the role played by Erlander, who for 23 years (1946-69) served simultaneously as his country's prime minister and as leader of the Social Democratic party. Generous social benefits--from child support to subsidized housing and health insurance--were instituted during his tenure, accompanied by economic restructuring, improved labor relations and the delicate maintenance of the country's neutrality. Swedish political scientist Ruin's basically appreciative scholarly effort portrays Erlander as a pragmatic ideologue whose intellect and political acumen were leavened by his humanity and humor. Photos. (Apr.)