David Lasser
USA- Early Life and Education
- Journey into Science Fiction
- Transforming Wonder Stories
- Advocating for Rockets and Space Exploration
- Later Career
- Legacy
David Lasser: The Unsung Advocate of Science Fiction and Space Exploration
Early Life and Education
Born into a humble family of Russian Jewish immigrants in Baltimore on March 20, 1902, David Lasser's childhood was marked by financial struggles. Leaving school at the age of 14, he became a bank messenger. His strong will and determination led him to enlist in the army during World War I, lying about his age. He endured the horrors of the war in France, but was discharged in 1919 due to a mustard gas injury.
With the support of a government program for veterans, Lasser enrolled at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1920. Despite initially struggling academically, he graduated in 1924.
Journey into Science Fiction
After graduating, Lasser worked in various jobs before finding his calling in science fiction. In 1929, he responded to an ad for an editor at Stellar Publications, founded by renowned publisher and inventor Hugo Gernsback.
Although lacking experience in science fiction, Lasser possessed a keen intellect and a passion for education. Gernsback, still reeling from the loss of his first science fiction magazine, "Amazing Stories," hired Lasser as an assistant editor for his two new ventures, "Air Wonder Stories" and "Science Wonder Stories."
Transforming Wonder Stories
As an editor, Lasser revolutionized the field of science fiction. Recognizing the low literary quality of the submissions, he raised the standards and introduced themes of social relevance, scientific accuracy, and a focus on imagination. Lasser also collaborated with authors, suggesting story ideas and providing detailed feedback to enhance the quality of their work.
Advocating for Rockets and Space Exploration
Lasser's fascination with space led him to delve into scientific journals. He discovered that the theoretical foundation for space rockets already existed. In 1930, he organized a gathering of science fiction authors and founded the American Interplanetary Society (AIS).
The AIS disseminated knowledge about rocket technology and advocated for space exploration. Its members included aspiring writers like Robert A. Heinlein. Lasser's book, "The Conquest of Space" (1930), became a seminal work in the field, inspiring future astronauts and scientists.
Later Career
Lasser's concerns extended beyond science fiction. Witnessing the plight of the unemployed during the Great Depression, he became a vocal advocate for their rights. He formed the Workers' Alliance and advised President Franklin D. Roosevelt on unemployment issues.
Lasser's passion for social justice led to his dismissal from "Wonder Stories" in 1933. Despite his contributions to the magazine, Hugo Gernsback did not value his involvement in social activism.
Undeterred, Lasser continued to fight for the disenfranchised. He played a crucial role in establishing job training centers for the unemployed, a program that was later adopted by the government.
Legacy
David Lasser's impact on science fiction and space exploration is undeniable. As an editor, he raised the bar for scientific accuracy and imagination. As a founder of the AIS, he inspired generations of space enthusiasts. And as an advocate for social justice, he fought for the betterment of society.
Despite his significant contributions, Lasser's name has faded into obscurity. While history books may focus on the giants of science fiction like Gernsback and Heinlein, it is the unsung heroes like David Lasser who laid the groundwork for the genre's golden age and beyond.
