Celebrating life and legacy of Alfred Hermann Fried

OV Digital Desk

Alfred Hermann Fried (11 November 1864 โ€“ 5 May 1921) was an Austrian pacifist, journalist, and writer.

Life and Career

Alfred Hermann Fried was born on November 11, 1864, in Vienna, Austria. He came from a middle-class Jewish family and was the second of six children.

Fried’s early experiences of witnessing the conflicts and tensions of his time, particularly the Austro-Prussian War and the Franco-Prussian War, had a profound impact on his future dedication to pacifism and peace activism.

He received a basic education in Vienna. His intellectual curiosity and desire to learn led him to self-educate extensively, and he became well-versed in various subjects, including philosophy, economics, and international politics.

Fried initially pursued a career in journalism and writing. He worked as a correspondent for several newspapers, including the “Neue Freie Presse.”

His passion for peace and international understanding led him to become involved in the peace movement. He was one of the founding members of the German Peace Society and later founded the German Peace Society (Deutsche Friedensgesellschaft) with his partner, Bertha von Suttner, in 1892.

Fried authored various books and articles, with his most famous work being “Handbuch der Friedensbewegung” (Handbook of the Peace Movement). His writings were instrumental in promoting pacifism and anti-war sentiments.

Fried was active in international peace congresses and conferences, working to build bridges of understanding and cooperation between nations.

Alfred Hermann Fried passed away on May 5, 1921, in Vienna, Austria.

Award and Legacy

Alfred Hermann Fried was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1911 for his unwavering commitment to the cause of peace and his influential role in the international peace movement. He shared the prize with fellow pacifist and writer, Bertha von Suttner, who was a prominent figure in the peace movement. The Nobel Committee recognized Fried for his exceptional contributions in advocating for peace, his prolific writings on the subject, and his efforts in fostering international understanding during a time of increasing political tensions and conflicts.

Fried’s writings, especially his book “Handbuch der Friedensbewegung” (Handbook of the Peace Movement), continue to serve as essential references in the study of peace activism and the history of the peace movement.

He played a crucial role in organizing and participating in international peace conferences and congresses, fostering dialogue and understanding among nations, and advocating for peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

Fried’s dedication to peace and his relentless efforts to promote understanding and cooperation between nations continue to inspire individuals and organizations committed to peacebuilding, human rights, and conflict resolution.

Fried’s advocacy for disarmament and his emphasis on the detrimental effects of militarism and war on societies and global stability remain relevant in contemporary discussions on international security and arms control.


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