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Lot 110
Einstein, Albert. Typed Letter Signed "A. Einstein," one page, in German, 11 x 8½ in., Berlin, September 20, 1927. To [Leo] Kohn [Frankfurt], threatening to resign from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. In full, "I gave Mr. Warburg my opinion in all candor, but subsequently never heard from him. For this reason, I would consider writing to him once more uncalled for. If the agreement with Hadassah will be accepted, or if the Magnes proposals will be approved either in total or parts thereof, I shall not only resign from the Board, as well as from the Academic Council, but also publicize in the Jewish press in all frankness the reason for my resignation. If Magnes cannot be eliminated in the very near future, I shall also follow through with my resignation. I am doing this because I am convinced that at this point, no real harm would result by compromising the University in the eyes of the Jewish public. Perhaps it will serve the interest of the entire matter, if you could make sure everybody concerned is made aware of my decision. Friendly regards." Two file holes in blank right margin. Nicks at edges, light folds and creases not materially affecting its overall appearance. Near fine condition.
Felix M. Warburg (1871-1937) was an American philanthropist whose gift of $500,000 allowed the Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem to open in December 1924, three months before the inauguration of the Hebrew University, of which it became part. He insisted that American Rabbi Judah L. Magnus (1877-1948) head the university and Chaim Weizmann, President of the World Zionist Organization, agreed. Einstein disagreed, citing Magnus' lack of academic experience and the way he ran the university. Einstein would fulfill his threat to resign in a letter to Chaim Weizmann on June 20, 1928, writing "As things stand I feel it impossible to be responsible any longer for matters concerning the university. Thus I ask you to strike me from the Board of Governors and the Academic Council and to inform the members of both accordingly." Backing down from his threat to "publicize in the Jewish press" the reasons for his resignation, Einstein added, "The public will certainly not be informed of this step by me.".
Estimated Value $4,000 - 6,000.
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