Björn Þórðarson [SEP] position held
Björn Þórðarson
Björn Þórðarson (; 6 February 1879 – 25 October 1963) was Prime Minister of Iceland from 16 December 1942 to 21 October 1944, in the only government that did not rely on parliamentary support. He was prime minister when Iceland became a republic. His cabinet was named the Coca-Cola rule because two of its ministers started franchises of two big American companies during the US occupation during World War II. Vilhjálmur Þór, from the Progressive Party, took on Esso, and Björn Ólafsson, later a member of
the King of Denmark also being the King of Iceland.
Aftermath.
The union with Denmark was dissolved on 17 June 1944. Since Denmark was still occupied by Nazi Germany, many Danes felt offended that the step should have been taken at that time. Nevertheless, King Christian X of Denmark sent a message of congratulations to the Icelandic people.
Republican Celebration.
The Republican Celebration was held in Þingvellir on 17 June 1944. At 13:30, Prime Minister Björn Þórðarson set the celebrations going, after which a religious