Jean-Jacques Willmar: Jurist, Civil Servant, and Politician

Jean-Jacques Willmar is one of three Luxembourgish deputies in the Frankfurt National Assembly in 1848. Even before his election, the Luxembourg government sends him to Frankfurt as a trusted representative to participate in the Seventeen Committee of the German Confederation, tasked with drafting a constitution. As Attorney General and a key figure in the Luxembourg administration, he remains skeptical of the German unification movement. His primary goal is to preserve Luxembourg’s autonomy within the German Confederation. Like the other Luxembourgish deputies, he consistently votes against resolutions that could threaten the Grand Duchy’s independence. Although he remains unaffiliated with any faction, he aligns with the conservative-liberal Casino faction, which supports a constitutional monarchy under Prussian leadership. Willmar rarely takes part in debates or committees, acting mainly as an observer. From July 1848 onwards, he is frequently absent from votes, often without excuse. In early 1849, he leaves the National Assembly permanently. After returning to Luxembourg, he continues his political career and serves as a leading minister until 1856.