Dan Snow's History Hit – Episode Summary: "The Einstein Murders"

Release Date: April 24, 2025

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "The Einstein Murders," host Dan Snow delves into the harrowing true story of Robert Einstein, the cousin of the illustrious physicist Albert Einstein. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II, the episode explores the tragic fate of Robert Einstein and his family at the hands of Nazi forces in Italy. Dan Snow is joined by Thomas Harding, a renowned journalist and author of "The Einstein Vendetta: Hitler, Mussolini and A True Story of Murder," who provides in-depth insights into this lesser-known chapter of history.

Background: Albert Einstein and the Nazi Threat

The episode begins with a poignant introduction by Dan Snow, setting the stage in August 1944. Robert Einstein, an Einstein family member in Italy, becomes the target of Nazi aggression due to his Jewish heritage and his familial connection to Albert Einstein—a prominent critic of the Nazi regime.

Thomas Harding explains, "Albert Einstein was, I mean, he must have been the most famous Jew in the world... By the time Adolf Hitler was elected, pamphlets were being published endorsed by the Nazis, calling for the murder of the top Jews in the country, including Albert Einstein" (04:10). The rising anti-Semitic sentiments, coupled with Albert’s activism, led to a significant threat against his family members residing in Europe.

Life of Jews in Italy Under Mussolini

The narrative shifts to the precarious situation of Jews in Italy during Mussolini's Fascist regime. Initially, Jews in Italy enjoyed a relatively secure position, with some holding significant roles within the Fascist government. However, the alliance with Nazi Germany marked a drastic downturn. Thomas Harding notes, "With Mussolini becoming pals with Hitler... they signed what they called the racial laws. They were very much like the Nuremberg laws" (11:11). These laws severely restricted Jewish rights, leading to increased persecution and eventual deportations to concentration camps.

The Berger Murders: August 1944

As the war intensifies, the German occupation of Florence brings dire consequences for the Einstein family. On August 3rd, 1944, a German unit arrives at the Einstein villa seeking Robert Einstein. Thomas Harding recounts, "These are the last hours of the German occupation of Florence... this German unit comes out of Florence, down this country lane, up this track in the middle of nowhere" (17:39). Despite Robert’s efforts to remain hidden, the soldiers invade the villa, interrogate the women, and inflict unimaginable terror.

During the interrogation, "they smash down the door and start saying, where is Robert Einstein? Where is the guy who owns the villa? Where is the cousin of Albert Einstein?" (17:57) The situation escalates tragically when the German captain, frustrated by the inability to locate Robert, orders the execution of two of Robert’s daughters, Lucha and Chi Chi, in the living room—an act described by Harding as "cold bloodedly, he murders them" (19:05). The villa is subsequently set ablaze, further endangering the remaining family members.

Aftermath: Seeking Justice and Continued Struggle

In the wake of the atrocities, Robert Einstein desperately seeks justice. However, the immediate post-war environment proves hostile to war crimes investigations. Thomas Harding explains, "The US pursued the investigation and they got nowhere... in early 1946, they handed the file to the Italians." (26:57) The lack of a systematic approach to war crimes, coupled with political amnesties in Italy, stymies efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.

Haunted by the loss of his family and overwhelmed by guilt, Robert Einstein ultimately takes his own life in July 1945. Harding poignantly states, "He commits suicide. He can't deal with the guilt. He feels totally responsible for that and he just can't deal with it" (26:57).

Albert Einstein's Involvement and Emotional Toll

The episode further explores Albert Einstein’s potential involvement and emotional response to the tragedy. While direct evidence of Albert’s personal feelings remains sparse, Harding cites letters and testimonies suggesting that Einstein was deeply affected by his cousin’s fate. "We have letters... it's highly likely that Albert was extremely disturbed, upset and probably almost certainly tried to do something about it" (25:15).

Legacy: Delayed Justice and Ongoing Investigations

Decades after the war, the pursuit of justice for war crimes in Italy remains fraught with challenges. Thomas Harding highlights the discovery of over 620 war crimes files in the 1990s, leading to renewed investigations and trials. Although some perpetrators were identified, many evaded justice due to extradition refusals, leaving a lasting sense of frustration among victims and their families.

Harding emphasizes, "When it came to the Einstein murders of 1944, there were no trials." (26:57) The episode concludes with a reflection on the enduring impact of these unresolved crimes and the ongoing quest for accountability within historical narratives.

Conclusion

"The Einstein Murders" offers a compelling examination of a tragic, yet often overlooked, episode in World War II history. Through meticulous research and emotional storytelling, Dan Snow and Thomas Harding shed light on the personal and political complexities that led to the downfall of the Einstein family in Italy. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring human cost of war and the perpetual struggle for justice in its aftermath.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Thomas Harding: "Albert Einstein was, I mean, he must have been the most famous Jew in the world..." (04:10)

• Thomas Harding: "With Mussolini becoming pals with Hitler... they signed what they called the racial laws. They were very much like the Nuremberg laws." (11:11)

• Thomas Harding: "The Nazis were killing their so-called enemies even if they were living overseas. So there was a real threat against Albert Einstein." (06:02)

• Thomas Harding: "They smash down the door and start saying, where is Robert Einstein?... the captain now is getting incredibly cross because his job is to get Robert Einstein." (17:57)

• Thomas Harding: "He commits suicide. He can't deal with the guilt. He feels totally responsible for that and he just can't deal with it." (26:57)

• Thomas Harding: "When it came to the Einstein murders of 1944, there were no trials." (26:57)

Further Engagement

Listeners interested in exploring this tragic story and the broader implications of war crimes investigations are encouraged to tune into Dan Snow's History Hit for more in-depth historical narratives and analyses.