- Name: Ben Ferencz
- Occupation: Lawyer, Author
- Date of Birth: March 11, 1920
- Place of Birth: Transylvania, Romania
- Nationality: American
- Spouse: Gertrude Ferencz
- Children: 4
- Net Worth (2024): Estimated at $5 million
- Source of Wealth: Legal career, book sales
- Ethnicity: Jewish
- Height: 5’10"
- Notable Works: Chief Prosecutor at the Nuremberg Trials, Author of "Less Than Slaves"
Early Life and Education
Benjamin Berell Ferencz was born on March 11, 1920, in Nagysomkút, Transylvania, into a Jewish family. His family emigrated to the United States when he was ten months old to escape persecution. Ferencz studied crime prevention at the City College of New York and later attended Harvard Law School, graduating in 1943.
Military Service and Nuremberg Trials
After joining the US Army, Ferencz served in various roles during World War II, eventually becoming a prosecutor at the Nuremberg trials. He played a key role in the prosecution of Nazi war criminals, particularly in the Einsatzgruppen trial, where he personally volunteered to serve as the prosecutor.
Advocacy for International Justice
Following his experiences during World War II, Ferencz became a vocal advocate for the establishment of an International Criminal Court. He worked as an adjunct professor of international law at Pace University and authored several books on the subject. He believed that war-making itself should be considered a crime against humanity.
Contributions to Genocide Prevention
Ferencz dedicated his life to genocide prevention and justice. He donated significant amounts to organizations focused on preventing genocide and pledged his life savings to similar initiatives. His commitment to justice and human rights earned him numerous accolades and awards throughout his lifetime.
Legacy and Recognition
Benjamin Berell Ferencz passed away on April 7, 2023, at the age of 103. He was the last surviving prosecutor from the Nuremberg trials. His impact on international justice and his relentless pursuit of accountability for war crimes continue to inspire future generations. Ferencz’s legacy lives on through his contributions to the field of international law and his unwavering dedication to justice and human rights.
Financial Insights:
Ben Ferencz’s estimated net worth in 2024 is around $5 million. His primary sources of income stem from his distinguished legal career, speaking engagements, and royalties from his books. The factors contributing to his wealth include his expertise in international law, the success of his publications, and his reputation as a leading figure in the field of human rights.
Expert Opinions and Legacy:
Ferencz’s work has garnered praise from legal scholars, human rights activists, and world leaders. His unwavering dedication to seeking justice for victims of war crimes has left a lasting impact on the field of international law. Experts often cite him as a role model for aspiring lawyers and advocates for his tireless pursuit of justice.
