Clara Immerwahr

Clara Immerwahr (June 21, 1870 – May 2, 1915) was the German born wife of the well known chemist, Fritz Haber, who was most widely known for his development of the Haber-Bosch process, an effective method of synthesizing ammonia.

Related Topics:
June 21 - 1870 - May 2 - 1915 - German - Chemist - Fritz Haber - Haber-Bosch process - Synthesizing - Ammonia

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Immerwahr studied at the University of Breslau, attaining her degree and a Ph.D. in chemistry. She married Haber in 1901. Constrained by the female stereotypes of the time, her scientific research was hindered. She instead contributed to her husband's work without recognition, and translated his works into the English language.

Related Topics:
University of Breslau - Ph.D. - Chemistry - Female stereotype - Translate - English language

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During World War I Fritz became a staunch supporter of the German military effort and played an important role in the development of chemical weapons (particularly poison gases).

Related Topics:
World War I - Chemical weapons - Poison gas

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His efforts would culminate to the first gas attack in military history in Flanders, Belgium on April 22nd 1915.

Related Topics:
Flanders - Belgium - April 22nd - 1915

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Haber thereafter returned home to Berlin. Tragically, shortly after his return Clara picked up Haber's military pistol and shot herself in the chest.

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Clara's suicide remained largely in the dark; it was never in the newspaper and there is no evidence of an autopsy. The undocumented nature of her death has led to much controversy as to her motives, many believe she was discontented with her life and detested Haber's work in chemical warfare.

Related Topics:
Suicide - Autopsy

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