Maximilian Berlitz

Maximilian Delphinius Berlitz (; April 14, 1852 – April 6, 1921) was a German-American linguist, language teacher, and writer, known for founding the Berlitz Language Schools.

Early life Berlitz was born David Berlitzheimer the Berlitz School of Languages in May 1878. Adapted from the "Natural Method" of language education invented by Lambert Sauveur and Gottlieb Henness, the “Berlitz Method" differed by introducing grammar and vocabulary from the first lesson, rejecting the use of translation as the basis of lessons and increased use of student participation.

Personal life Berlitz changed his first name to Maximilian in 1872, shortened his surname to Berlitiz by 1874 and adopted the middle name Delphinius in 1876. (Initially alternatively spelt as “Burlets” or “Burlitz”.)

In 1885, Berlitz became an American citizen in Boston. On April 6, 1921, Berlitz died from a heart attack in New York City. Berlitz is buried at Woodlawn Cemetery.