Lale Sokolov

ABOUT Lale Sokolov, born Ludwig "Lale" Eisenberg on 28 October 1916, was a Jewish Slovak who survived the horrific conditions of the Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II. Known for his remarkable role as the tattooist, or "Tätowierer," at Auschwitz-Birkenau, Lale's life story gained global recognition through his experiences within the infamous camp and his enduring love story with his fellow inmate, Gita Furman. His life and story were popularized by Heather Morris's bestselling novel "The Tattooist of Auschwitz," bringing a personal, human narrative to the brutal history of the Holocaust.

BEFORE FAME Before being captured by the Nazis, Lale led a relatively ordinary life. He grew up in a Jewish family in Krompachy, a small town in Slovakia. As tensions and dangers for Jews escalated in Europe, Lale was transported to Auschwitz in 1942. Upon arrival at the camp, he was identified by his prisoner number, 32407, and was eventually assigned the job of Tätowierer, a position that, while loathed by many prisoners, provided him with certain privileges and responsibilities that were crucial for his survival.

TRIVIA Lale's task as a tattooist involved etching identification numbers onto the arms of fellow inmates—a role that came with a complex mix of guilt, compassion, and survival instinct. Despite his position, he used his relative freedom within the camp to help other prisoners, often bartering for food and medicines to support those in dire need. His acts of defiance and humanity under oppressive circumstances are remembered as a testament to resilience and solidarity.

FAMILY LIFE While at Auschwitz, Lale met and fell deeply in love with Gita Furman, prisoner number 34902. Their love story is extraordinary, marked by stolen moments amidst the unimaginable horrors around them. After the war, Lale and Gita were miraculously reunited, got married, and eventually settled in Melbourne, Australia, where they raised a son named Gary. The couple, deeply aware of the importance of remembering the past, lived a life dedicated to rebuilding and cherishing the freedom they had fought so hard to regain.

ASSOCIATED WITH Lale's legacy is closely associated with Heather Morris, the author who penned "The Tattooist of Auschwitz" after extensive interviews with Lale. Morris's novel brought Lale's story into the global spotlight, offering a poignant and personal perspective on the human aspects of life, love, and survival during one of history's darkest periods. Through Morris's narrative, Lale's experiences have educated and inspired countless readers worldwide, immortalizing not just the horrors of the Holocaust but also the enduring power of love and hope.

Lale Sokolov's remarkable life narrative underscores the strength of the human spirit, providing a voice to countless untold stories from the Holocaust and ensuring that the memories of those who suffered are never forgotten.