August Bebel

Date of Birth: February 22, 1840

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: August 13, 1913

Biography

August Bebel was a prominent German socialist politician and a founding figure of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). Born on February 22, 1840, in Deutz, Cologne, Bebel grew up in a working-class family. He initially trained as a turner and later became involved in the labor movement, deeply influenced by the writings of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. Bebel co-founded the SPD in 1875, which became one of the most influential socialist parties in Europe. Known for his oratory skills and unwavering commitment to workers’ rights, he served multiple terms in the German Reichstag (parliament). Bebel was a vocal critic of militarism and capitalism, advocating for universal suffrage, social justice, and workers’ rights. He passed away on August 13, 1913, in Passugg, Switzerland.

5 Interesting Facts about August Bebel

1. August Bebel was imprisoned multiple times for his political activities, spending nearly four years in total behind bars.

2. He was one of the first politicians to advocate for women’s rights and gender equality in the late 19th century.

3. Bebel’s book, “Die Frau und der Sozialismus” (“Woman and Socialism”), published in 1879, was groundbreaking in its call for gender equality.

4. Despite his frequent clashes with the authorities, Bebel remained a central figure in German politics for over four decades.

5. Bebel’s legacy influenced many socialist leaders and movements across Europe, making him a key figure in the history of socialism.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from August Bebel

1. “When socialism comes into power, there will be no unemployment.”

2. “Freedom is always and exclusively freedom for the one who thinks differently.”

3. “Women’s emancipation is inseparably connected with the emancipation of the working class.”

4. “The rights of all men are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.”

5. “The day will come when the bourgeoisie will be grateful to us for having saved it from itself.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

August Bebel did not accumulate personal wealth as his life was dedicated to political activism and advocacy for social change. The concept of net worth is not applicable in his case.

Children

August Bebel and his wife, Julie Bebel, had two children: a son named Wilhelm and a daughter named Frieda. Wilhelm followed in his father’s footsteps to some extent, becoming involved in social democratic politics.