Oszkar Gerde

Oszkar Gerde

Austro-Hungarian fencing athlete
Date of Birth: 08.07.1883
Country: Hungary

Content:
  1. Oszkár Gerde: Champion Fencer and Holocaust Victim
  2. Early Life and Fencing Triumphs
  3. Legacy in Fencing
  4. Tragic End: Victim of the Holocaust
  5. Conclusion

Oszkár Gerde: Champion Fencer and Holocaust Victim

Oszkár Gerde, a Hungarian-born fencer, was a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a prominent figure in the sport. Additionally, he served as a judge at international fencing competitions before his life was tragically cut short during the Holocaust.

Early Life and Fencing Triumphs

Gerde was born in Budapest, Hungary in 1883. As a member of the Hungarian fencing team, he achieved unparalleled success at the 1908 and 1912 Olympic Games, capturing gold medals in both editions.

Legacy in Fencing

Following his retirement from competitive fencing, Gerde dedicated himself to the sport as a respected judge at international tournaments. His contributions to the development and growth of fencing were invaluable.

Tragic End: Victim of the Holocaust

As a person of Jewish heritage, Gerde became a target of Nazi persecution during the Second World War. In 1944, he was interned in the infamous Mauthausen concentration camp. Sadly, Gerde's life was tragically cut short when he perished there that same year.

Conclusion

Oszkár Gerde's legacy as an Olympic champion and fencing icon is forever etched in history. Despite the horrors he endured during the Holocaust, his contributions to the sport will continue to inspire and motivate fencers for generations to come.

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