ALS in German, signed “Albert,” one page, 8.5 x 11, no date but circa summer 1946. Letter to his cousins Alfred and Robert. In full (translated): "I was delighted to hear that you both are safely in Switzerland. So many of our tribesmen were ruthlessly murdered and nobody gave a damn. Let’s hope that this time the claws shall be cut off from this predator—who knows if indeed it will happen.
Actually I am writing to you because of Alice [another of Einstein’s cousins], the happily divorced lady who is with us just now. Her divorce was absolutely necessary—better late than never. Although Ogden is quite a decent human being, because of this sadistic streak in him, he is totally unbearable as husband. If Alice had not had her friend, who incidentally is a splendid fellow, she would never have pulled it off. One can immediately see in her face that all is well with her now. She gives the impression of a balanced, happy person who is quite attractive. This probably is thanks to her professional activity at which she has been so successful. I am hopeful she will be able to resume this or a similar activity again. All the struggles she had to endure, have enormously strengthened her self assurance and ability to cope with life. We are doing quite satisfactorily here, Maja too, although she was very ill this summer.” A pencil notation in another hand indicates a date of 1946. Intersecting folds and light soiling to the right side, otherwise fine condition.
Written in the immediate aftermath of World War II, Einstein opens this letter with a grim reflection on the atrocities of the war and a hope that Germany will never again start such a horrific conflict. As millions of his Jewish “tribesmen”—including some of his own relatives—were systematically slaughtered, the brilliant scientist’s life was devoted to wartime causes; from his work involving nuclear weapons, to his tireless efforts advocating for Jewish immigrants, to his vocal advocacy for the establishment of Israel, without which, millions of Jews would never find sanctuary. An absolutely fantastic letter, poignantly reflecting on the war that dominated the Einstein family’s lives. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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