Robert S. Wistrich
Robert Solomon Wistrich was a distinguished professor of European and Jewish history at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and one of the world's leading experts on antisemitism. Born in 1945 in Lenger, Kazakhstan, he was educated at Queens' College, Cambridge, where he received his PhD. Wistrich's academic journey began with a focus on socialism and nationalism in Central Europe, which later expanded to include the comprehensive history of antisemitism.
Throughout his career, Wistrich authored several seminal books on antisemitism, including 'Antisemitism: The Longest Hatred'. His works explore the evolution of antisemitism through various historical and cultural contexts, emphasizing its persistence and transformation in modern times. Wistrich's scholarship is noted for its depth and analytical rigor, providing essential insights into the mechanisms and manifestations of antisemitic ideologies.
Wistrich's contributions to Jewish history and the study of antisemitism were recognized internationally. He served as the head of the Vidal Sassoon International Center for the Study of Antisemitism and was a frequent speaker at conferences around the globe. His work not only enriched academic discourse but also informed policy discussions on antisemitism and racial intolerance. Wistrich passed away in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of profound scholarship and a deep commitment to understanding and combating antisemitism.