Danish statesman. Born 1534, died 1594.
Niels Kaas came from a noble family, and was raised by the eminent theologian Niels Hemmingsen. As royal chancellor (from 1573), Kaas worked to promote the school system and the church, and acted as sponsor/mentor to many of the great scholars of the coming generation.
In matters of foreign policy, the turbulent circumstances prevailing during Kaas's period in office offered him the challenge of maintaining Denmark's stability, in particular in relation to neighbouring Sweden.
When King Christian IV of Denmark succeeded to the throne in 1588, Niels Kaas led the regency government during the young king's minority. Kaas died while Christian IV had not yet come of age, and on his deathbed, the chancellor gave final advice to the young king on the smooth running of government.