Jakob Ehrlich

Jakob Ehrlich was a prominent figure in Austrian politics, particularly in the Zionist movement. As a leader of the Jewish Community in Vienna, he played a crucial role in representing the interests of the city's substantial Jewish population, which numbered around 180,000, in the city government. His political involvement was significant, given the historical context of the time, and reflected his commitment to the welfare of his community.

Ehrlich's life took a tragic turn with the arrival of the German army in Vienna in March 1938. He was among those targeted in the "Prominententransport" and deported to the Dachau concentration camp. The harsh conditions and brutal treatment he endured at the camp ultimately led to his death, a result of severe beatings, just a few weeks after his arrival. His family, however, managed to escape the persecution, with his wife, Irma, and their son finding refuge first in England and then in the United States, where Irma continued to work tirelessly on behalf of Jewish children in Europe through organizations like WIZO and Hadassah.