Definition
Kraks Blå Bog (English: Krak’s Blue Book) is a Danish biographical reference work that compiles concise profiles of notable individuals from Denmark, primarily focusing on persons distinguished in fields such as business, politics, science, culture, and public life. It functions as Denmark’s principal “who’s‑who” directory.
Overview
First issued in 1910 by the publishing house Krak (now part of the media group Gyldendal), Kraks Blå Bog has been published in regular editions, typically updated every few years. The work is presented in a compact, blue‑bound volume—hence the name “Blå Bog.” Each entry provides basic personal data (date and place of birth, education), a summary of the individual’s career, current or most recent positions, and, where applicable, honors and affiliations. The publication is used by journalists, researchers, corporations, and governmental bodies for quick verification of a person’s professional background.
Etymology/Origin
The title combines the publisher’s name, “Krak,” with the Danish word “Blå” (blue) and “Bog” (book). The colour reference derives from the distinctive blue cover of the original editions, a design choice that has become a recognizable trademark in Danish publishing.
Characteristics
- Selection Criteria: Inclusion is based on prominence within Danish society. Candidates are typically nominated by peers, professional associations, or identified by the editorial staff; entries are then vetted for relevance and public interest.
- Content Structure: Entries are arranged alphabetically by surname and include: full name, birth details, education, career highlights, current or most recent occupation, and any notable awards or memberships.
- Editions and Updates: New editions are released approximately every three to five years, incorporating newly eligible individuals and updating existing profiles. An online database was introduced in the early 2000s, providing digital access and more frequent updates.
- Physical Format: Traditional print editions are bound in a blue hardcover, measuring roughly 21 × 15 cm, and contain several thousand entries.
- Audience: The book is marketed to libraries, corporate information services, and private subscribers who require reliable biographical data on Danish elites.
Related Topics
- Who’s Who publications – analogous biographical directories in other countries (e.g., Who’s Who in the United Kingdom, American Men and Women of Science).
- Gyldendal – the Danish publishing group that now oversees the Krak brand.
- Biographical dictionaries – reference works that compile life summaries of notable persons.
- Danish business registries – official databases such as the Danish Central Business Register (CVR) that complement biographical information with corporate data.
Note: The information presented reflects publicly available sources and the historical record up to 2024.