Ludwig Quidde

Date of Birth: March 23, 1858

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: March 4, 1941

Biography

Ludwig Quidde was a prominent German critic, historian, and pacifist, most notably recognized for his vehement opposition to militarism and his advocacy for peace. Born in Bremen, Germany, Quidde initially pursued a career in academia, earning a doctorate in history. His scholarly work soon took a backseat to his political activism, particularly his outspoken criticism of German militarism and his commitment to the international peace movement. Quidde’s most famous work, “Caligula: A Study of Imperial Insanity,” was a thinly veiled critique of Kaiser Wilhelm II and reflected his concerns about autocratic rule and militarism. His engagement in the peace movement culminated in his co-founding of the German Peace Society and his active participation in several international peace congresses. In 1927, Quidde’s lifelong dedication to peace was recognized when he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, alongside Ferdinand Buisson, for their efforts in promoting peace and disarmament. Despite his Nobel accolade, Quidde faced significant persecution during the rise of the Nazi regime, leading him to flee to Switzerland, where he lived until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Ludwig Quidde

1. Ludwig Quidde was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1927.

2. His book “Caligula: A Study of Imperial Insanity” indirectly criticized Kaiser Wilhelm II.

3. Quidde was a co-founder of the German Peace Society.

4. He earned a doctorate in history before dedicating himself to political activism and peace efforts.

5. Quidde fled to Switzerland to escape persecution by the Nazi regime.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ludwig Quidde

1. “Every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration. Constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought.”

2. “Peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice, of law, of order—in short, of government.”

3. “The belief in the possibility of a short decisive war appears to be one of the most ancient and dangerous of human illusions.”

4. “The idea of eternal peace is a dream, and not even a beautiful dream.”

5. “To suppress criticism is to silence freedom.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ludwig Quidde’s highest net worth achieved is not well-documented, but his contributions to peace and his Nobel Prize recognition were of immense non-monetary value.