Fascinating ALS in German, signed “A. Einstein,” one page, 8.25 x 5.75, no date [January 1950]. Letter to Rudolf Ehrman, who had been his physician in Berlin and who emigrated to America before World War II; in Einstein’s final years, Ehrman once again served as one of his physicians. Although undated, research indicates that the letter was likely penned in January of 1950. In full (translated): “Best wishes for the New Year and many thanks for all the attention. The book is surely very interesting. It will make it ever clearer that the unequaled Nehru doesn’t have an easy job, to clean the country from bloodsuckers and superstition, when one cannot count on the support of the rabble. In this sense our lot is easier, as we can restrain ourselves by complaining (which I, at least, put to good use)." In very good to fine condition, with intersecting folds, a stain touching the sentiment, and light show-through from two notations on the reverse.
Containing important political as well as philosophical implications, which finds Einstein, in his condemnation of the "bloodsuckers," making a pointed political judgment about those willing to exploit the people; while in attacking "superstition," he confirms a scientific opinion that truth rests on knowledge rather than belief. Moreover, the letter reveals Einstein's great admiration for Jawaharlal Nehru, appreciative of the enormous difficulties he faced as the first prime minister of India, while conversely showing his frustration towards the “rabble” and their inclination to be feed into demagoguery and religious fanaticism, which he had witnessed firsthand in Germany and now feared would occur in America. Letters boasting such direct remonstrations by Einstein are exceptionally rare.
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