Juozas Staugaitis

Juozas Staugaitis (1866–1943) was a prominent Lithuanian statesman and the first bishop of Telšiai, actively involved in the establishment of Lithuania's independence. He was a key figure in the 1917 Lithuanian Conference and signed the Act of Independence on February 16, 1918. Staugaitis served in various governmental roles, including vice-chairman and later chairman of the Seimas, and was instrumental in the formation of the Telšių diocese. His legacy continues to influence the Lithuanian Catholic community.