Albert Einstein, 1945

EINSTEIN, Albert (1879-1955). Autograph letter signed ("A. Einstein") to "Herr Rothe", Princeton, "Palm Sunday" 25 March [1945].

In German, one page, 278 x 215mm (light mailing folds).

With the German capitulation imminent in Europe, Albert Einstein expresses his satisfaction "to know that the German Criminals have not been able to escape their just punishment." Weeks before the German High Command's unconditional surrender, Einstein reflects upon the horrible crimes committed which were just starting to make headlines as Allied troops liberated prisoners from the all-too numerous concentration camps they encountered during their final offensive into Germany (translated): "One is almost ashamed to live for so many years while our hopeful young people in Europe are being murdered. However, one is grateful to have been permitted to live long enough to know that the German Criminals have not been able to escape their just punishment. The Russians no doubt see to it that no foul compromise will be made again."