Victor Stern

Victor Stern (29 October 1885 – 27 March 1958) was an Austrian philosopher, teacher and communist politician. He was active in communist parties in Austria and Germany until 1923 when he was forced to exile. He settled first in Czechoslovakia and then in the Soviet Union. From 1946 he lived in East Germany where he stayed until his death.

Early life and education

Stern was born in Třešť, Bohemia, Austria-Hungary, on 29 October 1885.

Career and activities Following his graduation Stern taught mathematics, physics, logic and psychology at a private school. From 1921 to 1923 he acted as the leader of communists in Austria.

Stern was made political editor of the German communist journal Volksblatt in 1923 when its three editors were dismissed due to their opposition to the affiliation with the Comintern. He exiled into Czechoslovakia where he lived until 1935. Stern returned to Czechoslovakia and then, settled in East Germany where he joined the ruling party, Socialist Unity Party. In 1947 Stern was appointed to the Advanced Training Institute for Functionaries 'Karl Marx'. In 1952 he was promoted to the professorship.

Later years and death Stern retired in 1955 as a result of his long-term illness. He died in Potsdam-Babelsberg on 27 March 1958.

Awards Stern was the recipient of the Soviet Order of the Red Star which was awarded to him before he left the Soviet Union in 1945.