Hugo Haase (1863–1919) was a prominent lawyer, Social Democrat, and later co-founder of the Independent Social Democratic Party of Germany (USPD). The Leo Baeck Institute spoke to Dr. Karsten Krampitz, a historian, journalist, and author with a doctorate in history. Dr. Krampitz has published widely as both editor and writer for radio and stage, and his recent works include the book Pogrom im Scheunenviertel: Antisemitismus in der Weimarer Republik und die Berliner Ausschreitungen 1923. In 2019, he produced a radio feature on Hugo Haase for Deutschlandfunk.
Born in Allenstein, East Prussia, Hugo Haase became known for his principled opposition to war credits during World War I and for his charismatic oratory. Despite his brief but impactful political career, Haase is little remembered today, though he once stood alongside figures like Karl Liebknecht and Rosa Luxemburg as a leading voice for workers and democracy.
Haase’s political journey was shaped by his Jewish heritage and deep commitment to social justice. He fought for the rights of the disenfranchised, often defending comrades pro bono and maintaining his independence from party machinery. As Dr. Krampitz notes, Haase’s warmth and integrity set him apart – he was authentic and approachable, always prioritising solidarity over personal gain.
After being expelled from the SPD over his anti-war stance, Haase co-founded the USPD, which quickly grew into a mass party advocating for democracy and social equality. He played a pivotal role in the revolutionary government following the First World War, sharing leadership with Friedrich Ebert. Haase’s vision of socialism was inseparable from democracy, and he believed lasting change required the support of the majority, not just revolutionary elites.
Tragically, Haase was assassinated in 1919, just as Germany’s future was being decided. His legacy endures as a reminder of alternative paths in the workers’ movement-paths rooted in democracy, inclusion, and justice for all.
We encourage readers to explore the full English feature for a deeper understanding of Haase’s life and ideas: https://www.lbilondon.ac.uk/research/lbi-research/hugo-haase-voice-disenfranchised-and-nearly-forgotten-giant-german-politics. The article is part of the series ‘Civil Engagement and Democracy in German History: Jewish Experiences and Perspectives’.
For more on the Leo Baeck Institute’s anniversary events and new archival collections, visit the LBI’s 70th anniversary website: https://lbi-70.org
