Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Mortoff-zederbaum, Menshevik Leader Dies

April 5, 1923
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

Leo Martoff at one time one of the closests friends of Lenin and who later became one of the bitterests opponents of the Bolshevist regime, and leader of the Mensheviki party, died yesterday in a sanitarium here.

Martoff, whose real name was Julius Zederbaum, at one time planned to organize an uprising against the Bolshevists. When Bolsheviki authorities sought to capture him, Martoff escaped, making his home in various European countries where he continued his agitation the Bolshevists.

Despite his absence from Russia, his influence continued to be felt there. He was a devoted adherent of the Kerensky faction. Martoff has been living in Berlin for the past several months. He was of Jewish origin and was well versed in Hebrew lore. He was 55 years of age.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement