Alfred Landecker was a businessman, a father and a committed German patriot. He lived in Mannheim with his three children, enjoyed professional success and was firmly rooted in German society. Yet, as a Jew, he was systematically excluded and stripped of his rights by the Nazis before being deported to Poland and murdered in 1942.
His life story exemplifies the destruction of German-Jewish life under National Socialism. It serves as a reminder of how people who had been an integral part of German society were gradually deprived of their rights, their livelihoods and ultimately their lives.
Remembrance as a Responsibility
Alfred Landecker is the namesake of our foundation. His story and the responsibility arising from Germany's Nazi past form the foundation of our work: We are committed to preserving the memory of the Holocaust, combating antisemitism and strengthening democracy.
This is why we support research into his life and efforts to make his story accessible to a wider public. With our funding, both the biography and new exhibition features at the MARCHIVUM have been made possible.
Going forward, the life stories of Alfred Landecker and Holocaust survivor Ernest W. Michel will be explored in greater depth in the multimedia permanent exhibition “What Does This Have to Do with Me?”
Two accompanying brochures and additional digital content will offer visitors the opportunity to engage with these distinct biographies and the history of Jewish life in Mannheim.
In this way, the remembrance of Alfred Landecker extends beyond his name. His story will remain accessible and tangible for future generations.
The Event
At the book launch, Annette Prosinger will read selected passages from her biography, followed by a conversation with Prof. Ulrich Nieß, historian and former director of the MARCHIVUM.
The evening will also feature welcome remarks by Muhterem Aras, Vice President of the Baden-Württemberg State Parliament; Lena Altman, CEO of the Alfred Landecker Foundation; Thorsten Riehle, Mayor of Mannheim; and Helen Heberer, Chair of the Friends of MARCHIVUM association.
The new exhibition features and the accompanying brochures will also be presented. Afterwards, guests will have the opportunity to explore the exhibition.
Learn more about Alfred Landecker's life in our article “Who Was Alfred Landecker?”.
Book launch: Alfred Landecker: A German-Jewish Life, 1884–1942
18. November 2026, 18:00
MARCHIVUM Mannheim
Archivplatz 1
68169 Mannheim-Neckarstadt-West
Friedrich-Walter-Saal (6. OG)