Klara Marie Faßbinder

*15. Februar 1890 in Trier, †3. Juni 1974 in Wachtberg-Berkum

Fassbinder was an activist of the West German peace and women's movement. After studying Romance studies, history and philosophy at the University of Bonn, she initially abandoned a university career and committed herself to reconciliation with France. Due to her public criticism of Nazi Jewish politics, she lost her position as managing director of the Saarland Stage People's Association in 1935. She subsequently earned her living translating Paul Claudel's works. After 1945 K. M. Faßbinder became professor of history at the Pedagogical Academy Bonn, a position from which she was suspended in 1954 because of her advocacy for an understanding with the East. When she was awarded the French "Ordre des Palmes Académiques" in 1966 for her translations of Claudel's works and for her commitment to Franco-German friendship, President Lübke refused to present this award. It was only under President Heinemann that she was able to officially accept the order in 1969.