Marian Turski, Holocaust Survivor and Advocate for Jewish-Polish Dialogue, Passes Away at 98
The renowned historian and journalist, known for his poignant reflections on the Holocaust, died at the age of 98, leaving behind a legacy of memory and resistance.
Marian Turski, a Polish-Jewish Holocaust survivor, historian, journalist, and supporter of Jewish-Polish dialogue, has died at the age of 98. His passing was reported by Polityka, the weekly magazine with which he had a long-standing association as an editor.
Originally born Moshe Turbowicz on June 26, 1926, in Druskienniki, Turski survived the horrors of the Łódź ghetto and the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp during World War II. After the war, he settled in Warsaw, where he gained prominence as a journalist.
From 1958 onwards, he served as an editor at Polityka, contributing to the magazine for many decades.
Turski held various significant positions throughout his career, including membership in the International Auschwitz Committee, the Jewish Historical Institute of Poland, and the Association of Jewish World War II Veterans and Victims.
In March 2009, he became the director of the Museum of the History of Polish Jews, a role that furthered his commitment to preserving Jewish culture and memory in Poland.
He received multiple awards from Germany, France, and Poland in recognition of his contributions to historical research and Holocaust education.
In a notable speech during the observance of the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in 2020, Turski emphasized the importance of vigilance against oppression, saying, "Auschwitz did not just fall from the sky...
do not be indifferent when any power violates accepted social contracts!" He urged people to adhere to the moral imperative of remaining aware and active in the face of potential injustices.
Turski's reflections on his experiences and the importance of remembrance have resonated with many, particularly as Holocaust survivors age and fewer are alive to share their stories.
His legacy as a historian and advocate for human rights continues to influence discussions on tolerance and the dangers of indifference.
Originally born Moshe Turbowicz on June 26, 1926, in Druskienniki, Turski survived the horrors of the Łódź ghetto and the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp during World War II. After the war, he settled in Warsaw, where he gained prominence as a journalist.
From 1958 onwards, he served as an editor at Polityka, contributing to the magazine for many decades.
Turski held various significant positions throughout his career, including membership in the International Auschwitz Committee, the Jewish Historical Institute of Poland, and the Association of Jewish World War II Veterans and Victims.
In March 2009, he became the director of the Museum of the History of Polish Jews, a role that furthered his commitment to preserving Jewish culture and memory in Poland.
He received multiple awards from Germany, France, and Poland in recognition of his contributions to historical research and Holocaust education.
In a notable speech during the observance of the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in 2020, Turski emphasized the importance of vigilance against oppression, saying, "Auschwitz did not just fall from the sky...
do not be indifferent when any power violates accepted social contracts!" He urged people to adhere to the moral imperative of remaining aware and active in the face of potential injustices.
Turski's reflections on his experiences and the importance of remembrance have resonated with many, particularly as Holocaust survivors age and fewer are alive to share their stories.
His legacy as a historian and advocate for human rights continues to influence discussions on tolerance and the dangers of indifference.
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