Today in History

What happened today in history? Important events, births and deaths.

05 January 2025

Death of Jeanne de Salzmann

Historical Significance and Background

On January 5, 1968, an event took place in the Gurdjieff Foundation that marked the passing of Jeanne de Salzmann, an important figure and a renowned name in the field of spiritual development. The death of Jeanne de Salzmann is not only significant in the history of Germany but also drew attention in many countries, including Germany, for its impact on spiritual movements in the 20th century.

Development of the Event

Pre-Event

Jeanne de Salzmann was born in France in 1889 and had an early encounter with G.I. Gurdjieff. She had a profound influence on Gurdjieff's teachings and philosophy and assumed the leadership of the Gurdjieff Foundation after his death. Salzmann led the way in spiritual development work and transmitted Gurdjieff's teachings to her students.

Event Development

In 1968, the death of Jeanne de Salzmann was met with great sorrow. At that time, spiritual movements and teachings had gained popularity in Europe, especially in Germany. Salzmann's death became a significant turning point for the future of the Gurdjieff Foundation and the continuation of spiritual development work.

Key Events and Details

The death of Jeanne de Salzmann had a profound impact on spiritual movements and teachings. Under her leadership, the Gurdjieff Foundation became a center that guided spiritual development work. With Salzmann's passing, the future of the foundation became uncertain, and her students embarked on a search for a new path to continue her teachings.

Consequences and Effects

Short-term effects emerged from the uncertainty following Jeanne de Salzmann's death and the void in leadership within the foundation. Her students made efforts to establish new leadership and management structures. Long-term consequences arose from the continuation of Salzmann's teachings and spiritual development work.

The impact on social and political changes is more indirect. Spiritual movements and teachings have contributed to changes in the overall structure of society by focusing on individuals' personal development. Salzmann's death marked a significant turning point for the continuation and spread of these movements.

Historical Significance and Contemporary Reflections

The influence of Jeanne de Salzmann's death on spiritual movements and teachings continues to this day. Gurdjieff's teachings are still followed by many, and spiritual development work continues.

The effects of the event on the modern world are important in emphasizing the significance of individuals' focus on personal development. Jeanne de Salzmann's teachings have been inspiring in encouraging individuals to explore themselves and undergo inner transformation.

Among the lessons learned from the event is the importance of the continuity of spiritual development work and the transmission of teachings even in the absence of a leader. Jeanne de Salzmann's death is valuable in reminding us of these lessons and shaping the future of spiritual movements.

Frequently Asked Questions


Historical Significance and Background


On January 5, 1968, an event took place in the Gurdjieff Foundation that marked the passing of Jeanne de Salzmann, an important figure and a renowned name in ...

Death of Jeanne de Salzmann 1968 took place in

Death of Jeanne de Salzmann happened in Germany

Death of Jeanne de Salzmann is a historically significant event that 1968 marked an important turning point in world history