Berthe Zimmermann
Swiss politician (1902–1937)
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Berthe Zimmermann (27 September 1902 – 2 December 1937) (also spelled "Berta Zimmermann" and "Bertha Zimmermann") was a Swiss communist and wife of Fritz Platten. She headed the courier section of the Comintern's OMS (International Liaison Department) in Moscow in 1935 and was summarily executed during the Great Purge in 1937.[1]
Berthe Zimmermann | |
|---|---|
| Born | 27 September 1902 Zürich, Switzerland |
| Died | 2 December 1937 (aged 35) Moscow |
| Cause of death | execution |
| Other names | Berta Zimmermann, Bertha Zimmermann |
| Occupations | Communist activist; spy (courier) |
| Years active | 1923–1927 |
| Organization | Communist Party of the Soviet Union |
| Known for | head of courier section of Comintern's OMS (International Liaison Department) |
| Spouse | Fritz Platten |
Background
Zimmermann was born in Zürich, Switzerland, to a Protestant family on September 27, 1902.[1]
Career
In 1923, Zimmermann emigrated from Switzerland to the Soviet Union, where she worked for the Comintern. In 1923–1930, she worked for the Information section. Then in 1930–1931, she worked for the Organization section. Finally, in 1931–1937, she worked for the OMS under Jacob Mirov-Abramov.
After 1935, Zimmermann became head of the OMS's Courier section of OMS. She went on OMS missions to Paris and Prague.[1]
Personal
Zimmermann was married to Fritz Platten, a fellow communist also of Switzerland.[1][2]