Memory of Clara Immerswahr owner: Pioneer honored chemistry!

Memory of Clara Immerswahr owner: Pioneer honored chemistry!

Hittorfstraße 1, 14195 Berlin, Deutschland - nag/nag editors -

In a moving act of memory, a memorial stele for Clara Immerswahr owner in Berlin-Dahlem will be inaugurated on Monday, November 11, 2024. This event takes place on the corner of Hittorfstraße/Faradayweg, right in front of the Fritz owner Institute of the Max Planck Society. The stele, designed by the artist Karin Rosenberg, is supposed to commemorate the first doctor of chemist in Germany who was not only a brilliant scientist, but also a passionate fighter against discrimination and unequal educational opportunities. According to a report of the Tagesspiegel her life was shaped by challenges that she ultimately could not overcome.

Clara Immerwahr was born on June 21, 1870 in Polkendorf, near Breslau. She was the youngest of four children and grew up in an environment that was shaped by her father, a chemist. Despite the adversity that women experienced in the field of education at the time, she fought herself through her Abitur and began studying natural sciences. In December 1900, she was the first woman in Germany in chemistry at a Prussian university, such as reports .

a life full of fights

After her doctorate, Clara received an unpaid assistant position, which, however, did not allow her to have the academic career that she wanted. In 1901 she married the chemist Fritz Haber, hoping to work with him in science. But the social norms of time did not allow this. While Fritz Haber made a respected career in Berlin, Clara remained trapped in the role of the wife, who gave lectures on "Chemistry in the kitchen and household" and took care of the household.

The circumstances worsened when the First World War broke out and Fritz Haber devoted himself to poison gas research. Clara, who was vehemently against the use of poison gas, felt increasingly isolated and overwhelmed. On May 2, 1915, in the garden of the director's villa, she committed suicide with her husband's service weapon. Her suicide was a tragic end for a woman who fought for equality and recognition.

a lasting inheritance

Clara Immerswahrwahr owner is not only remembered as the first doctor of chemist in Germany, but also as a symbol of the fight against discrimination and unequal educational opportunities. Her story is an urgent call for reflection on the challenges with which women are confronted in science. Several prices and memorial stones, including the new memorial stone in Berlin, are reminiscent of their extraordinary life and their achievements.

The inauguration of the memorial stele is accompanied by important personalities, including deputy district mayor Cerstin Richter-Kotowski and the science historian Prof. Dr. Annette Vogt. This event is not only a tribute to Clara, but also a sign of change and recognition for women who often stood in science in the shadow of their male colleagues.