Gundlach, Ralph H. (Ralph Harrelson), 1902-1978

University of Washington professor of psychology who was fired for alleged communist sympathies.

Gundlach began teaching psychology at the University of Washington in 1927, and earned his Ph. D in 1928. He taught summers at several prestigious universities and became recognized as a leader in his field, but was at the center of controversy throughout his career at the UW. He received negative attention for the political and economic content of his psychology courses, and was criticized for hindering the school's efforts to remain aloof from partisan politics. Contoversy had tangible effects for Gundlach, who did not receive promotions or salary increases when he was eligible, despite the recognition he received as President of the Western Psychological Association. Redbaiting became a dominant feature in Washington politics during the election of 1946, and in 1948, Albert F. Canwell's Interim Committee on Un-American Activities held hearings on the Communist activities of University faculty. Gundlach refused to answer questions about his political affiliation in his testimony before the committee, and on the recommendation of the committee and U.W. President Raymond B. Allen, the U.W. Board of Regents fired Gundlach in January 1949. He made several attempts to clear his name and punish those who had ended his career at the University, but without success. He continued to be a recognized leader in his field however, and prospered as a private psychotherapist in New York City after his dismissal. He retired in 1973 and died in 1978.

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