When and where was Theodor Mommsen born?
Theodor Mommsen entered the world on the 30th of November 1817 in Garding, a small town within the Duchy of Schleswig. His family roots traced back to Friesland and he grew up in Bad Oldesloe.
Questions about Theodor Mommsen
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What major historical work did Theodor Mommsen publish between 1854 and 1885?
His main work Römische Geschichte appeared across five volumes published between 1854 and 1885. The first volume covered Rome from its earliest times up to 44 B.C. while subsequent volumes detailed Roman constitutional law criminal law and provincial administration.
Why did Theodor Mommsen receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1902?
Theodor Mommsen received the 1902 Nobel Prize in Literature for his historical writings. This recognition marked one of the very few instances where non-fiction authors won the prize.
How did Theodor Mommsen die during the fire at his Berlin home?
At 2 a.m. on the 7th of July 1880 fire erupted in the upper floor workroom-library of his Berlin home. Mommsen burned while attempting to remove valuable papers from the blaze at Marchstraße 6.
Which political figures did Theodor Mommsen oppose regarding social policies in 1881?
Mommsen strongly disagreed with Otto von Bismarck regarding social policies in 1881. His criticism was so severe that he narrowly avoided prosecution for his words.