Natan Sharansky Quotes
A collection of quotes by Natan Sharansky.
Natan Sharansky is a prominent Israeli politician and human rights activist. Born Anatoly Borisovich Shcharansky on January 20, 1948, in Donetsk, Ukraine (then part of the Soviet Union), he became a vocal advocate for democracy, freedom, and Jewish rights.
Sharansky was an active dissident during the Soviet era, fighting for the rights of Jews to emigrate to Israel and for the freedom of expression. He became a symbol of resistance against repressive regimes. After years of activism, he was arrested by the Soviet authorities in 1977 on trumped-up charges of treason and spying for the United States. Following a widely publicized trial, Sharansky was sentenced to 13 years of forced labor and imprisonment.
During his imprisonment, Sharansky continued his activism and became an internationally recognized symbol of the struggle for human rights. Through various campaigns, including those led by his wife Avital, he gained significant attention and support from Western governments and organizations.
In 1986, after intense international pressure, Sharansky was released as part of a prisoner exchange deal. Upon his release, he emigrated to Israel and became an active member of political life. Sharansky went on to serve as a member of the Israeli Knesset (parliament) and held several ministerial positions, including Deputy Prime Minister.
Throughout his life, Natan Sharansky has been widely recognized and honored for his commitment to human rights, democracy, and Jewish identity. His story of resilience, courage, and determination continues to inspire people around the world.