Max Warburg

Max Warburg

German financier of Jewish origin
Date of Birth: 05.06.1867
Country: Germany

Content:
  1. Max Warburg: German Financier and Collector
  2. Marriage and Family
  3. Leadership at M.M. Warburg & Co.
  4. Political Involvement
  5. Industrial Engagement
  6. Emigration to the United States
  7. Art Collector

Max Warburg: German Financier and Collector

Born into a prominent German banking family in 1867, Max Warburg inherited a keen financial acumen. His brothers, Paul and Felix, also pursued successful careers in finance, while his eldest brother, Aby, became a renowned art historian.

Marriage and Family

In 1889, Max Warburg wed Alice Magnus. Together, they raised a son, Eric (1900-1990), and four daughters.

Leadership at M.M. Warburg & Co.

From 1910 to 1938, Max Warburg helmed M.M. Warburg & Co., the Hamburg-based bank founded by his father. His tenure was marked by financial success and steady expansion.

Political Involvement

In 1919, Warburg served as a member of the German delegation at the armistice negotiations. He vehemently opposed the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, urging the Chancellor not to accept its terms.

Industrial Engagement

Beyond banking, Max Warburg also held a seat on the board of directors of IG Farben, a major industrial conglomerate. However, he was later removed due to tightening German laws against Jewish directors.

Emigration to the United States

In 1938, following the advice of Hjalmar Schacht, Warburg left Germany for the United States, where he continued his financial pursuits.

Art Collector

Max Warburg's passion for collecting extended beyond finance. Notably, he purchased a page from Alexander Pushkin's manuscript at a Leipzig auction in 1891.

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