TLS signed “A. Einstein,” one page, Princeton, 6.5 x 10.25, personal letterhead, October 16, 1953. Letter to William Roth. In part: “For many years I have been increasingly interested in the work of the American Committee for Emigre Scholars, Writers and Artists. This Committee has welcomed and counselled [sic] most of the European professionals of all creeds who have had the privilege of coming to America to escape totalitarian oppression. I know only too well how important it is for an emigre professional to receive this kind of help. The American Committee provides a place where such a newcomer finds advisers who understand his problems and can interpret to him the way of life and institutions of America, while he is being assisted in finding work in the field of his abilities. This is infinitely more difficult for specialized professionals than for workers in industry and the trades. The services of the American Committee are now needed more than ever before. Many of the professionals who arrived here during the last few years under the Displaced Persons Act at first gladly accepted low-level jobs if no others were available. They hoped that within a reasonable time they would get a start in their own fields. Unfortunately, all too many are still in their first low-level jobs and have become increasingly hopeless. Additional professionals will soon arrive among the 214,000 immigrants authorized by the Act recently passed by Congress with the strong support of President Eisenhower. Both the newcomers and those among the earlier arrivals not yet placed have to depend on the American Committee lest their skills are to be lost for our country. I therefore feel that the American Committee should be given the continuing support of understanding American citizens and institutions. I should be grateful if you or your representative could talk with either Mrs. Elise Staudinger or Mrs. Emily Lehan Gordon of the Committee to get a better idea of the scope of this work. I have asked them to phone you for an appointment. May I express the personal hope that you will be able to contribute to the success of this important endeavor.” In fine condition, with a small block of toning to lower left corner and two repaired punch holes to the left edge.
As the Nazis began to rise to power in Germany, Einstein left his homeland for the United States, taking a position at Princeton’s new Institute for Advanced Study in 1935. There he joined a core group of intellectual refugees whose contributions were a major force in defeating the Nazis, including John von Neumann, Hermann Weyl, and Kurt Godel. Never forgetting the opportunity he was given to escape persecution and join the academic community, Einstein involved himself in many causes relevant to the émigré scholar. In this letter, written at the height of McCarthyism, he reaches out to shipping executive William Roth in hopes of gaining support for the American Committee’s efforts to find jobs for those brought to safety through the Displaced Persons Act. This is an excellent piece in its relation to an important cause deeply personal to the celebrated scientist. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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