Élie Ducommun facts for kids
Élie Ducommun (born February 19, 1833 – died December 7, 1906) was a Swiss man who worked hard for peace. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1902. He shared this important award with another peace activist, Charles Albert Gobat.
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Early Life and Career
Élie Ducommun was born in Geneva, Switzerland. This was on February 19, 1833. He had many different jobs when he was younger. He worked as a tutor, helping students learn. He was also a language teacher. Later, he became a journalist, writing for newspapers. From 1869 to 1873, he worked as a translator for the Swiss government.
Working for Peace
Ducommun believed strongly in peace. In 1867, he helped start a group called the League for Peace and Liberty. This group worked to prevent wars and promote understanding between countries. Even while working for peace, he also held other jobs. For example, he was a secretary for a steel company from 1873 to 1891.
Leading the International Peace Office
In 1891, Ducommun took on a very important role. He became the director of the International Peace Office. This was the first international organization not run by a government that focused only on peace. It was based in Bern, Switzerland.
Ducommun was very dedicated to this work. He refused to take a salary for being the director. He said he wanted to serve the cause of peace because he believed in it so much. His excellent organizing skills helped the International Peace Office become very successful. He led the organization until he passed away.
Nobel Peace Prize
Because of his hard work and dedication to peace, Élie Ducommun received a great honor. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1902. He shared this prize with Charles Albert Gobat, another Swiss peace activist. This award recognized their efforts to bring peace to the world.
Later Life
Élie Ducommun passed away on December 7, 1906, in Bern, Switzerland. He was 73 years old. His work helped lay the groundwork for international peace efforts that continue today.
