The Hermann–Mauguin notation remains the standard international language for identifying crystallographic space groups, a system established by Carl Hermann alongside Charles-Victor Mauguin. Beyond his contributions to mathematical crystallography and the pioneer development of structural databases, Hermann maintained a commitment to pacifism that led to his arrest and imprisonment during the Nazi regime.
Academic Foundations
Born in 1898 in the Lehe district of Bremerhaven, Carl Hermann pursued his studies in mathematics and physics at the University of Göttingen. He received his doctorate in 1923 under the supervision of Max Born. Following his studies, he joined the Kaiser Wilhelm Institute for Fiber Chemistry in Berlin-Dahlem before moving to the University of Stuttgart in 1925, where he earned his habilitation in 1931.
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Hermann focused on the theoretical development of space groups and anisotropic material properties. He collaborated with Paul Peter Ewald to publish the first volume of the Strukturbericht in 1931, a foundational reference series for crystal structure determination. When political pressure within academia increased, he transitioned to the industrial firm I.G. Farben to continue his investigations into symmetry and higher-dimensional spaces.
Wartime Resistance
They provided refuge in their home to those targeted by authorities. In 1943, both were arrested by the Gestapo. While his wife received a three-year sentence, Hermann was sentenced to eight years; however, authorities permitted him to continue his scientific research while incarcerated.
Post-war Career and Recognition
Following the conflict, Hermann held a brief tenure at the Darmstadt Polytechnic before accepting a chair in crystallography at the University of Marburg in 1947. He served as the director of the Crystallographic Institute until his death in 1961. In 1976, Yad Vashem posthumously recognized both Carl and Eva Hermann as Righteous Among the Nations for their rescue efforts.
Fast facts
- Born: 1898, Bremerhaven
- Died: 1961, Marburg
- Citizenship: Germany
- Education: University of Göttingen
- Primary Field: Crystallography
- Award: Righteous Among the Nations (1976)
Questions readers ask
What is the Hermann–Mauguin notation?
It is an international standard notation used to describe the symmetry of crystallographic space groups.
Why was Carl Hermann imprisoned in 1943?
He was arrested by the Gestapo for providing shelter and resources to a Jewish family during the Nazi period.
Achievements
- Righteous Among the Nations — 1976
- Worked as physicist, university teacher and resistance fighter
- Educated at University of Göttingen