Baeck, Leo, 1873-1956

20th century German-Polish-Jewish Rabbi, scholar, and a leader of Progressive Judaism. On 27 Jan. 1943, he was deported to the Theresienstadt concentration camp. He became the "honorary head" of the Council of Elders (Judenrat) in Theresienstadt. As such, he was protected from transports and with his protection list, could also save his relatives from transports, among others his grand-niece Ruth (b. 1925). Moreover, Baeck became "prominent", which meant that he had better accommodation, better food and could receive mail more often. He gave lectures, was active in the interfaith dialogue between the Jews and Christians of Jewish origin, worked in the youth care sector, which he directed from Nov. 1944 on, and was friendly with many of the functionaries. After the liberation, he headed the Council of Elders.

From the description of Leo Baeck statement, undated. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 733569543

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