Significant ink signature, “Dec. 1930, A. Einstein, Berlin," penned on the reverse of a 9 x 12 guestbook page from Hebrew College in Havana, during Einstein's brief two-day visit to Cuba, which marked the only time he visited the country. Einstein was an early proponent of Jewish universities, knowing that Jews were often excluded from institutions of higher learning. This page is an ideal, early example of such support. The sheet, the top of which is marked ‘Registro de Visitantes’ and annotated “Colegio Hebrew del Centro Israelita de Cuba,” features signatures of several other well-known dignitaries and Zionists of the early 20th century, such as Dr. Abraham Coralnik, editor of 'The Day’ newspaper; Emanuel Celler, the longest serving Congressman in New York state history; Morris Fishman, Vice President of the Detroit Life Insurance Co. and spokesperson for United Jewish Campaign; Nathan Borin of Borin Brothers Co.; Rabbi Louis J. Victor Eppstein; Rabbi I. Edward Kiev, Head Librarian, Hebrew Union College; Oscar Lopez; Simon Eisenberg; Herman Chervony, board member of Centro Israelita de Cuba; Oscar Gutierrez; and Franco Goires. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light foxing and staining, and rusty paperclip impressions and file holes to one edge.
In late 1930, Einstein visited Cuba for a day-and-a-half—a jaunt made while en route to San Diego aboard the Belgenland, which stopped in Havana before passing through the Panama Canal. There he received a hero's welcome from the leaders of the Academy of Medical, Physical, and Natural Sciences of Havana, the Geographical Society of Cuba, and the local Jewish community. During his visit, Einstein gave a series of lectures on relativity theory and quantum mechanics at the University of Havana and the National Capitol. Einstein's visit to Cuba was also significant in terms of the political and social context of the time. Cuba was then a relatively new republic, having gained its independence from Spain in 1902, but was still struggling with economic and social challenges, as well as political instability. Einstein's visit was seen as a sign of solidarity with the Cuban people, and his lectures on science and philosophy were seen as a way of promoting education and enlightenment in the country.
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