Alfred Hermann Fried

Alfred Hermann Fried (11 November 1864 – 4 May 1921) was an Austrian pacifist, journalist, and author who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1911. He was a prominent advocate for peace and a co-founder of the German peace movement. Fried's work focused on promoting international understanding and cooperation, and he was a key figure in the development of the modern peace movement.

Early Life and Education

Alfred Hermann Fried was born in Vienna, in the Austrian Empire, on 11 November 1864. He left school at the age of 15 and began working in a bookshop, which sparked his interest in literature and writing. Fried moved to Berlin in 1883, where he continued to work in the publishing industry and began to develop his ideas about peace and internationalism.

Career and Contributions

Fried's career as a pacifist began in earnest in the late 19th century. In 1891, he co-founded the Deutsche Friedensgesellschaft (German Peace Society) with Bertha von Suttner, a fellow pacifist and author of the influential anti-war novel Die Waffen nieder! ("Lay Down Your Arms!"). This organization aimed to promote peace and disarmament in Germany and beyond.

Fried was a prolific writer and editor, contributing to numerous publications and founding several journals dedicated to peace and international relations. One of his most significant contributions was the establishment of the journal Die Friedens-Warte ("The Peace Watch") in 1899, which became a leading publication in the field of peace research.

In addition to his journalistic work, Fried was an active participant in international peace conferences and organizations. He was a delegate to the Hague Peace Conferences and worked closely with other prominent pacifists of his time.

Nobel Peace Prize

In 1911, Alfred Hermann Fried was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his efforts to promote peace and international understanding. The prize was shared with Tobias Asser, a Dutch jurist and another advocate for international law and arbitration.

Later Life and Legacy

Fried continued his work for peace throughout his life, even during the tumultuous years of World War I. He remained committed to the idea that lasting peace could only be achieved through international cooperation and understanding.

Fried passed away on 4 May 1921 in Vienna. His legacy lives on through his writings and the continued efforts of peace organizations around the world. His work laid the groundwork for modern peace studies and international relations.

Also see

• Bertha von Suttner
• Nobel Peace Prize
• Hague Peace Conferences
• Pacifism
• International relations