Albert Einstein (1879-1955).

Autograph note signed ('A. Einstein') to 'Herr von Haniell', [Berlin], 20 March 1921.

In German, 7 lines on the verso of his visiting card, 64 x 101mm, the recto with Einstein's printed details ('Prof. Dr. Albert Einstein / Mitglied der Akademie d. Wissenschaften / Berlin W. / Haberlandstr. 5').

Einstein warmly expresses his gratitude to Edgar Haniel von Haimhausen (1870-1935), undersecretary of state in the Foreign Ministry, for facilitating his first trip to the United States: 'You were so amiable as to furnish a border recommendation ['Grenzempfehlung'] for me. I permit myself to express my thanks to you for this great kindness'.

Einstein's first visit to the United States, which began in New York on 2 April 1921, was in part intended to support Chaim Weizmann in raising funds for the projected Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

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