Scientists & Inventors · 20th Century

Albert Einstein’s Last Words

Albert Einstein photo
March 14, 1879 April 18, 1955 Age 76 German/American
Unknown — he spoke his last words in German to a nurse who did not understand the language.
— Albert Einstein, April 18, 1955

Who Was Albert Einstein?

Albert Einstein developed the theory of relativity and made fundamental contributions to quantum mechanics. His famous equation E=mc² changed humanity's understanding of the universe.

The Final Moments

Einstein died at Princeton Hospital in New Jersey. He had refused surgery for his aortic aneurysm, saying 'I want to go when I want.' The attending nurse spoke no German.

Are These Words Verified?

✓ High Confidence

Well-documented that Einstein spoke final words in German to a nurse who didn't understand the language. His secretary and family confirmed this account, making it certain the words are genuinely lost.

Sources

  • archive Princeton Hospital records
  • firsthand Helen Dukas (secretary) account
  • firsthand Hospital staff reports

Legacy

Einstein's name has become synonymous with genius, and his theories underpin modern physics, GPS technology, and our understanding of the cosmos.

physicsrelativitygeniusNobel Prize

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Albert Einstein’s last words?

“Unknown — he spoke his last words in German to a nurse who did not understand the language.”

How did Albert Einstein die?

Albert Einstein died on April 18, 1955 at the age of 76. Cause of death: Aortic aneurysm.

Were Albert Einstein’s last words documented?

Well-documented that Einstein spoke final words in German to a nurse who didn't understand the language. His secretary and family confirmed this account, making it certain the words are genuinely lost.