Draft:Samuel Kratzok

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Samuel E. Kratzok
Samuel Kratzok, circa 1921
Born	(1889-11-15)November 15, 1889 Borzna, Ukraine
Died	March 15, 1969(1969-03-15) (aged 79) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Nationality	American
Occupation	Attorney
Known for	Legal contributions, advocacy for Jewish communities

Samuel E. Kratzok (November 15, 1889 – March 15, 1969) was a distinguished American attorney, recognized for his contributions to legal cases involving bankruptcy, banking law, and his advocacy for Jewish communities during turbulent times in the 20th century. His career spanned several decades, during which he made significant legal, philanthropic, and community contributions, particularly in Philadelphia.

Early Life and Education

Born in Borzna, Ukraine, Samuel Kratzok immigrated to the United States in 1891 with his family, settling in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His early experiences as an immigrant influenced his later involvement in supporting Jewish refugees and displaced people. He pursued a legal education and became an attorney in Philadelphia, where his professional work would eventually become well-regarded, especially in bankruptcy and financial law.

Legal Career

Kratzok's legal career flourished as he worked on high-profile cases related to the financial instability of the Great Depression and the insolvency of national banks. One notable case he was involved in was Willing v. Delaplaine (1937), where Kratzok represented a receiver for the insolvent Sixth National Bank of Philadelphia. His work helped set legal precedents related to the responsibilities and liabilities of bank shareholders during periods of financial failure​.

Kratzok's expertise in bankruptcy law made him a key figure in several other financial cases throughout the 1930s and 1940s. He was often sought after for his ability to navigate complex financial litigation and his attention to the fine details of law​.

Community Involvement and Jewish Advocacy

In addition to his legal work, Samuel Kratzok was deeply involved in the Jewish community. He held leadership roles in numerous Jewish organizations, including serving as President of the Philadelphia Zionist Organization and as a key figure in the American Jewish Congress. His work in these organizations reflected his commitment to the welfare of Jewish people, particularly during the Holocaust and its aftermath.

During World War II, Kratzok was active in advocating for the establishment of "free ports" in the United States to provide refuge for Jewish people fleeing Nazi persecution. He corresponded with President Franklin D. Roosevelt and worked closely with the War Refugee Board, pushing for measures to rescue and support Holocaust survivors​. His advocacy extended to local and national levels, where he helped Jewish refugees find safety and secure their futures in the United States.

Personal Life and Legacy

Kratzok married Elizabeth Willig in 1916, and they had several children together. He was an active member of the Jewish philanthropic community and served in numerous civic roles. His contributions to the legal field and Jewish advocacy were widely recognized, and he received several honors, including being celebrated for 50 years of service at the Brith Sholom organization​.

Samuel Kratzok passed away on March 15, 1969, in Philadelphia, leaving behind a legacy of legal excellence and community leadership. His life's work remains a testament to his dedication to justice, both in the courtroom and in his humanitarian efforts to support Jewish refugees and the global Jewish community during some of the darkest times in history.