Erika Mann

A German-Jewish author and anti-Nazi activist whose writings exposed the atrocities of Nazi Germany and inspired post-war human rights movements.

Erika Mann (1898–1969) was a German-Jewish writer, political dissident, and LGBTQ+ rights advocate whose courageous exposes of Nazi atrocities and critiques of fascism made her a global voice for human rights. Born into a prominent literary family (sister of Thomas Mann), she fled Germany in 1933 after the Nazis banned her works. In exile, she authored 《Exile's Child》, a semi-autobiographical novel revealing the psychological toll of persecution. Her 1942 report 《The Looting of an Intellectual Treasure》 detailed Nazi book burnings and cultural destruction. Erika also co-founded the International PEN organization's human rights committee, using literature to combat propaganda. Her 1967 memoir 《The Way to the Tower》 addressed her bisexuality, breaking taboos in LGBTQ+ representation. Despite her influence, Erika's contributions were overshadowed by her famous brother's legacy until recent scholarship. Her archives are preserved at the Thomas Mann Society, highlighting her unique role as both a cultural icon and resistance figure.