It was not outstanding brilliance that made Friedrich Ebert so successful as first President of the German Republic. Tact, willingness to go halfway in bridging crises, and, withal a careful tenacity of principle will make his loss severely felt. Few people expected so great a success in guiding a new government built on shattered foundations. He has survived many a more brilliant leader of post-war Germany.
That he started his career as a saddler's apprentice is well-known. That he stopped directly from this occupation to the presidency is, of course, false. Since 1901 he had been a recognized factor in German politics. Ebert had always been a Socialist, preaching the creed of Marx and Lassalle in the streets of Bremen.
His death removes him from the ranks of possible contestants in the June election. He died at the height of his career, holding the greatest office in the gift of the German people. The past has been difficult. The future is dubious: such a leader will be missed.
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