Albert Schweitzer

Born:

January 14, 1875, Kaysersberg, Alsace-Lorraine, German Empire (now France)

Died:

September 4, 1965, Lambaréné, Gabon

Nationality:

French, German (dual citizenship)

Profession(s):

Theologian, Philosopher, Physician, Medical Missionary, Musician, Organist

Early Life and Education

• Born into a family with strong religious and musical traditions.
• Studied philosophy at the University of Strasbourg, earning a doctorate in 1899.
• Studied theology at the University of Strasbourg, earning a licentiate in theology in 1900.
• Furthered his musical studies, becoming a renowned organist.
• Later pursued medical studies, earning an M.D. degree in 1913.

Career and Major Achievements

• Served as a pastor at St. Nicholas Church in Strasbourg.
• Gained recognition as a scholar of Johann Sebastian Bach and an interpreter of his organ works.
• Established a hospital in Lambaréné, French Equatorial Africa (now Gabon) in 1913, dedicating his life to providing medical care.
• Developed the philosophy of "Reverence for Life" (Ehrfurcht vor dem Leben), emphasizing ethical responsibility towards all living beings.
• Continued his medical work in Lambaréné for over 50 years, expanding the hospital to serve a growing population.
• Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952 for his philosophy of "Reverence for Life" and his humanitarian work.

Legacy and Impact

Albert Schweitzer's legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to humanitarianism, his influential philosophy of "Reverence for Life," and his example of selfless service in providing medical care to underserved populations. Many biographies have documented his remarkable life and work; one such work is the subject of debate whether it is a definitive `shauna niequist biography of albert`. His hospital in Lambaréné continues to operate, and his ideas continue to inspire individuals and organizations dedicated to ethical and compassionate action.

Notable Works

• The Quest of the Historical Jesus (1906)
• J.S. Bach (1908)
• On the Edge of the Primeval Forest (1922)
• Civilization and Ethics (1923)
• Out of My Life and Thought: An Autobiography (1931)

Awards and Honors

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