Hugo Urbahns

Hugo Urbahns

Hugo Urbahns (1890–1946) was a German politician and revolutionary known for his involvement in the Communist Party of Germany (KPD) and later the Communist Workers' Party of Germany (KAPD). He played a significant role in the left-wing movements in Germany during the early 20th century.

Early Life

Hugo Urbahns was born in 1890 in Germany. Little is known about his early life and education. He became politically active at a young age, joining the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) before World War I.

Political Career

During the German Revolution of 1918–1919, Urbahns was an active participant in the revolutionary activities that led to the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II and the establishment of the Weimar Republic. He was a member of the Spartacus League, which later became the Communist Party of Germany (KPD).

Communist Party of Germany (KPD)

Urbahns was a prominent member of the KPD, advocating for a revolutionary overthrow of the capitalist system. He was involved in various uprisings and strikes, including the March Action of 1921. However, his radical views often put him at odds with the party leadership.

Communist Workers' Party of Germany (KAPD)

In 1920, due to ideological differences, Urbahns and other left-wing radicals split from the KPD to form the Communist Workers' Party of Germany (KAPD). The KAPD was more radical than the KPD, advocating for workers' councils and direct action. Urbahns was a leading figure in the KAPD, contributing to its theoretical and practical activities.

Later Years and Death

After the rise of the Nazi Party in 1933, Urbahns faced persecution like many other left-wing activists. He went into exile and continued his political activities from abroad. Hugo Urbahns died in 1946.

Legacy

Hugo Urbahns is remembered as a significant figure in the early 20th-century German left-wing movements. His contributions to the revolutionary cause and his role in the KPD and KAPD highlight the complexities and divisions within the German communist movement during that period.

See Also

• Communist Party of Germany
• Communist Workers' Party of Germany
• German Revolution of 1918–1919
• Weimar Republic
• Spartacus League
• March Action