His life and work serve as a vital reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the importance of remembrance and vigilance against hatred.
Holocaust Historian and Survivor Marian Turski Passes Away at 98
Holocaust Historian and Survivor Marian Turski Passes Away at 98
Marian Turski, a prominent voice against indifference and a survivor of the Holocaust, has died, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
In a profound loss for the global community, Marian Turski, a Polish Holocaust survivor, esteemed historian, and journalist, passed away at the age of 98. Born Moshe Turbowicz in 1926, he endured the harrowing experiences of the Lodz Ghetto, Auschwitz-Birkenau extermination camp, and subsequent death marches during World War II.
After the war, Turski dedicated his life to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and educating future generations. He became a pivotal figure in Polish journalism and history, co-founding Warsaw's Jewish Museum and serving as president of the International Auschwitz Committee. Turski drew significant attention at the 75th anniversary of Auschwitz's liberation in 2020, cautioning the world that history could repeat itself if indifference persisted.
As a child in Lodz, his life changed dramatically under Nazi occupation. He, along with his family, was confined to a Jewish ghetto, which faced severe hardships, including starvation and forced labour. In 1944, Turski's parents and brother were deported to Auschwitz. Tragically, they did not survive, with his father and brother being murdered in gas chambers. Turski himself was forced on death marches to concentration camps Buchenwald and Terezin, where he was liberated in January 1945.
Turski’s post-war journey was marked by a strong commitment to education and journalism. He completed his studies in history at the University of Wrocław and became editor of the history section of Polityka magazine. His work resonated widely, addressing the impact of history on contemporary society.
His poignant message at the recent Auschwitz commemorations emphasized the growing concerns about antisemitism and advised against indifference. Poland’s Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich and Prime Minister Donald Tusk honored Turski’s contributions, highlighting his wisdom and moral guidance.
As tributes pour in, Turski’s legacy as a passionate advocate for remembrance and an opponent of prejudice will continue to inspire future generations to remain vigilant against hate.
After the war, Turski dedicated his life to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and educating future generations. He became a pivotal figure in Polish journalism and history, co-founding Warsaw's Jewish Museum and serving as president of the International Auschwitz Committee. Turski drew significant attention at the 75th anniversary of Auschwitz's liberation in 2020, cautioning the world that history could repeat itself if indifference persisted.
As a child in Lodz, his life changed dramatically under Nazi occupation. He, along with his family, was confined to a Jewish ghetto, which faced severe hardships, including starvation and forced labour. In 1944, Turski's parents and brother were deported to Auschwitz. Tragically, they did not survive, with his father and brother being murdered in gas chambers. Turski himself was forced on death marches to concentration camps Buchenwald and Terezin, where he was liberated in January 1945.
Turski’s post-war journey was marked by a strong commitment to education and journalism. He completed his studies in history at the University of Wrocław and became editor of the history section of Polityka magazine. His work resonated widely, addressing the impact of history on contemporary society.
His poignant message at the recent Auschwitz commemorations emphasized the growing concerns about antisemitism and advised against indifference. Poland’s Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich and Prime Minister Donald Tusk honored Turski’s contributions, highlighting his wisdom and moral guidance.
As tributes pour in, Turski’s legacy as a passionate advocate for remembrance and an opponent of prejudice will continue to inspire future generations to remain vigilant against hate.
