Lot 1500

FRANZ BOAS

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FRANZ BOAS

Estimate: $200 - $300

Starting Bid: $100

(0 Bids)

by Alexander Historical Auctions LLC
July 31, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Live Auction
106 East Main Street, Suite 103
Elkton, MD, US 21921

FRANZ BOAS
(1858 – 1942) German-American anthropologist and ethnomusicologist, considered by many to be the 'Father of American Anthropology'. His work is associated with the movements known as historical particularism and cultural relativism, and he also proved no discernable genetic difference (and thus physical difference) between Jews and non-Jews. Excellent, timely content T.L.S. on his Columbia University Department of Anthropology letterhead, 1p. 4to., New York, Oct. 2, 1941 to Dr. Carl Friedrich of the Council for Democracy. Boaz is perplexed by a letter received from his correspondent, writing in part: '...I do not know exactly what you want me to do...I do not know about number 3, but I think my own opinion...has been expressed so often, not with particular reference to the Jews but with regard to all races. I do not know exactly what you want...' A few errant 'x' marks and a rust spot, else very good. It seems probable that Boaz may have been sent photographs of various people and asked for his opinions as to their race or religion. The Council for Democracy was an influential American public relations and lobbying organization founded in 1940 to combat isolationist sentiment and mobilize public support for active United States participation in World War. As part of his work with the Council, Dr. Carl Friedrich wrote the 1941 article 'The Poison in Our System,' which was published and heavily distributed as a pamphlet to combat fascist ideology.

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$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000