J. Alvin Kugelmass
J. Alvin Kugelmass was a notable journalist and author born in New York City in 1910. He pursued his education at Columbia University, earning both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in education, although his career path took a different direction as he became prominent in journalism rather than education. Kugelmass contributed to various significant publications, including the New York World-Telegram, The Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek Magazine. In addition to his journalistic endeavors, he authored several biographies that highlighted influential figures and important movements, such as Ralph J. Bunche and the Black Panther Party. His work spanned across various subjects, including scientific history with his biography on J. Robert Oppenheimer. Additionally, he was involved in the creation of the 1958 espionage drama, The Two-Headed Spy. Kugelmass remained active in writing until his passing in 1972, leaving behind a legacy that reflects a diverse exploration of historical narratives.
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Subject Terms
J. Alvin Kugelmass
Writer
- Born: September 25, 1910
- Birthplace: New York, New York
- Died: March 11, 1972
Biography
J. Alvin Kugelmass was born in New York City in 1910. He was a student of Columbia University, where he earned both his B.A. and his M.A. degrees in education. After finishing school, Kugelmass did not start a career in education. Instead, he started a career as a journalist. During the course of his career, Kugelmass wrote for numerous newspapers, including, but not limited to, the New York World- Telegram, the New York Star, and the Phoenix Republic, as well as for The Wall Street Journal and Newsweek Magazine.
Kugelmass was also the author of a number of different biographies, including Ralph J. Bunche: Fighter for Peace, published in 1952, and J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Atomic Story, published in 1953. Kugelmass’s biographies also covered the lives of historical figures such as Louis Braille as well as institutions such as the Black Panther Party in the 1960’s. The 1958 espionage drama The Two-Headed Spy was based on a story that Kugelmass had written. In the 1960’s, he continued to write and publish such additional books as Earl Warren: Crusader for the People and Congo Crusader: The Life of Patrice Lamumba, all while continuing his regular journalism work. Kugelmass continued to work and write until his death in 1972.