Johann Most

Date of Birth: February 5, 1846

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: March 17, 1906

Biography

Johann Most was a significant figure in the revolutionary socialist and anarchist movements during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Augsburg, Bavaria, Most was initially trained as a bookbinder, but he eventually turned to journalism and political activism. He became known for his radical views and his vehement opposition to established political systems. Most’s fiery rhetoric and his advocacy for “propaganda of the deed”—the use of direct action, including violence, to incite social change—made him a controversial figure. In 1871, he was elected to the German Reichstag as a member of the Social Democratic Workers’ Party. However, his radicalism soon led to his expulsion from the party and his subsequent imprisonment. After his release, Most emigrated to the United States in 1882, where he continued his activism. He founded the anarchist newspaper “Freiheit” and became an influential voice in the American anarchist movement. His writings and speeches inspired many, including the infamous anarchist Emma Goldman. Most’s advocacy of violence as a means to achieve revolutionary goals brought him into frequent conflict with authorities, leading to multiple arrests and imprisonments. Despite these challenges, he remained a fervent advocate for his beliefs until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Johann Most

1. Johann Most was originally trained as a bookbinder before turning to journalism and political activism.

2. He was elected to the German Reichstag in 1871 but was expelled from the Social Democratic Workers’ Party due to his radical views.

3. Most emigrated to the United States in 1882 and founded the anarchist newspaper “Freiheit.”

4. He was a strong proponent of “propaganda of the deed,” which advocated for the use of direct action, including violence, to incite social change.

5. Most’s writings and speeches influenced many notable anarchists, including Emma Goldman.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Johann Most

1. “The god of the Christians is a father who makes much of his apples, and very little of his children.”

2. “He who desires liberty must be ready to fight for it.”

3. “The possession of arms is the distinction of a free man from a slave.”

4. “It is not enough to curse the chains of slavery; we must break them.”

5. “Revolution is born of the belly and not the brain.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Johann Most did not accumulate significant wealth; his highest net worth is not well-documented but is presumed to be minimal, given his lifelong dedication to revolutionary activities and frequent imprisonments.