Stephane Hessel

Date of Birth: October 20, 1917

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: February 26, 2013

Biography

Stéphane Frédéric Hessel was a notable French diplomat, ambassador, writer, concentration camp survivor, and ardent human rights advocate. Born in Berlin, Germany, Hessel moved to France in 1924. Throughout his life, he played pivotal roles in significant historical events and movements, including his involvement in the French Resistance during World War II and his contribution to drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Hessel’s life was characterized by his unwavering commitment to social justice and his advocacy for human rights. He was captured and imprisoned by the Gestapo during World War II and survived the Buchenwald and Dora concentration camps, an experience that profoundly influenced his later work. In 2010, at the age of 93, Hessel published “Indignez-vous!” (“Time for Outrage!”), a short and powerful manifesto calling for people to stand up against injustice, which became a bestseller and inspired movements such as Occupy Wall Street. He continued to be active in political and social causes until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Stephane Hessel

1. Stéphane Hessel was involved in the French Resistance during World War II and was captured and tortured by the Gestapo.

2. He played a significant role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

3. His pamphlet “Indignez-vous!” sold over 4.5 million copies worldwide and was translated into numerous languages.

4. Hessel was an ambassador for France and served in various diplomatic positions throughout his career.

5. He was awarded the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, one of France’s highest decorations, in recognition of his contributions to the country.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Stephane Hessel

1. “To create is to resist, to resist is to create.”

2. “I am convinced that the future belongs to non-violence, to the reconciliation of different cultures. It is this path that humanity must follow.”

3. “Indifference is the worst attitude.”

4. “Think about all those who will come after you, and take action.”

5. “It’s time to get angry, time to engage, time to see where your responsibilities lie.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While exact figures of Stéphane Hessel’s net worth are not publicly known, his wealth was primarily in his intellectual contributions and social impact rather than financial accumulation.

Children

Stéphane Hessel had three children: two sons, Antoine and Michel, and a daughter, Anne. His family has continued to uphold his legacy of advocacy and social justice.