Yehuda Bauer, a prominent Holocaust scholar known for his groundbreaking work in Holocaust education and research, has died at the age of 98 in Jerusalem, Israel. His passing was announced by Yad Vashem, Israel's national Holocaust memorial, on Friday evening.
Bauer, born in Prague in 1926, was a multilingual academic who dedicated over six decades to studying and teaching about the Holocaust. His fluency in several languages allowed him to connect with audiences worldwide and delve into original source materials.
Throughout his career, Bauer authored numerous books and established international Holocaust education initiatives. He played a pivotal role in reshaping the narrative around the Holocaust, emphasizing its universal significance beyond its impact on specific individuals or communities.
As one of the first scholars in Israel to delve into the academic study of the Holocaust in the 1960s, Bauer's research focused on various aspects of Jewish resistance during the Holocaust, challenging prevailing narratives and highlighting the diverse forms of resistance beyond armed struggle.
His contributions extended beyond academia, as Bauer co-founded the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) in 1998, a coalition of over 35 countries committed to Holocaust education and commemoration. He also played a key role in formulating the Working Definition of Antisemitism, widely used to combat hate crimes and discrimination against Jews.
Recognized for his significant contributions, Bauer was awarded the prestigious Israel Prize in 1998. He remained active in scholarly pursuits until the end of his life, engaging in public discourse and academic discussions.
Described as a lover of music with a deep baritone voice, Bauer's legacy extends beyond his academic achievements. He is survived by his daughters, step-children, and numerous grandchildren.
