Sigmund Freud
Life & Work Timeline
Follow the journey of Sigmund Freud through time, including major life events and published works.
Born Sigismund Schlomo Freud on May 6th in Freiberg, Moravian town in the Austrian Empire (now Czech Republic), with his birth being seen as a positive omen by his mother due to having been born with a caul. His parents were Jakob Freud and Amalia Nathansohn, who had seven children together including Sigmund, and his father had two sons from a previous marriage. This early life was marked by the influence of Jewish culture and education in the region.
Sigmund Freud was born on May 6th in Freiberg, Moravia, to Jacob and Amalia Freud, marking the beginning of his life that would shape his future as a renowned psychoanalyst.
Sigmund Freud was born in Freiberg, Germany, as Julius, brother of Anna and Rosa Freud.
Anna Freud, sister of Sigmund, was also born in Freiberg, Germany, the same year her brother Julius was born.
The Freud family left Freiberg and moved with Julius to Vienna, marking the beginning of their journey together.
Rosa Freud, another sister of Sigmund, was born in Freiberg, Germany, as part of a large family.
Julius, along with his family, moved from Leipzig to Vienna, where they settled permanently.
At the age of nine, Julius entered Leopoldstädter Kommunal-Realgymnasium in Vienna, starting his academic journey.
Julius began studying under prominent professors Franz Brentano, Ernst Brücke, and Carl Claus at the University of Vienna, laying the groundwork for his future research.
Franz Brentano published his book "The Philosophy of the Unconscious". This publication marked a significant milestone in the development of modern psychology and introduced key concepts that would later influence Freud's own work on the unconscious mind.
Julius graduated from Matura with honors at the age of seventeen, completing his secondary education.
Sigmund Freud began studying medicine at the University of Vienna, marking the beginning of his academic journey in medicine and psychology. He was just starting to explore the human mind and behavior, laying the groundwork for his future work in psychoanalysis. The university's esteemed faculty and rigorous curriculum would shape his intellectual development and influence his thoughts on human nature.
At seventeen years old, Julius began his university studies at the University of Vienna, initially planning to study law but switching to medical faculty instead.
Franz Brentano published his Psychology from an Empirical Standpoint, which further solidified his ideas on the role of the unconscious in human experience. This work had a lasting impact on the development of psychoanalysis and its understanding of the human psyche.
Julius conducted research with Carl Claus in Trieste, deepening his understanding of various subjects.
For six years, Julius studied under Ernst Brücke's physiology laboratory at the University of Vienna, gaining extensive knowledge in physiology.
Compulsory military service interrupted Julius' research work, forcing him to put his studies on hold temporarily.
Emma Eckstein experienced severe leg pains, stomach pains, and menstrual pains due to an unknown cause, which would later be linked to Fliess' treatment by him.
Emma Eckstein had a history of adolescent self-cutting and experienced irregular nasal and menstrual bleeding after Fliess' surgery on her nose and sinuses.
Freud began delivering lectures on his work as a docent of Vienna University, marking the beginning of his academic career and laying the groundwork for his future research in psychology and psychoanalysis.
In November of that year, Sigmund Freud treated Bertha Pappenheim, also known as Anna O., for her hysterical symptoms using Josef Breuer's modified treatment. This case marked an early point in Freud's development of psychoanalysis and showcased the effectiveness of his new technique in treating psychological disorders. The success of this treatment would pave the way for Freud's future work on the human psyche.
Qualified as a doctor of medicine at the University of Vienna after completing his studies, solidifying his foundation for future career developments.
On April 1st, Bertha Pappenheim's father passed away, which led to a deterioration of her condition and ultimately resulted in some spontaneous remission of symptoms. This event highlighted the importance of understanding the interplay between psychological and biological factors in human behavior, a theme that would recur throughout Freud's work.
In April of this year, Sigmund Freud received his M.D. at the age of 25, completing his medical studies at the University of Vienna. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his career and solidified his position as a young doctor with a promising future.
Became a medical professional at Vienna General Hospital, marking the beginning of his career in medicine.
Ida Bauer (Dora) was born to a Jewish family in Freiberg, Moravia, which is now part of the Czech Republic. Her early life and experiences would later influence Freud's psychoanalytic theories.
Freud wrote several articles recommending medical applications of cocaine, which would later have significant implications for his reputation and the development of psychoanalysis.
Published an influential paper on the palliative effects of cocaine, shedding light on its therapeutic potential.
Freud published his paper 'On Coca', in which he explored the potential therapeutic uses of coca leaves, but Karl Koller received scientific priority for discovering cocaine's anesthetic properties.
Completed habilitation and became a docent in neuropathology, establishing himself within the academic community at the University of Vienna.
Was appointed as a university lecturer or docent in neuropathology, solidifying his expertise in the field.
Freud went to Paris on a three-month fellowship to study with Jean-Martin Charcot, which had a catalytic effect on his career in medical psychopathology.
Fliess performed surgery on Emma Eckstein's nose and sinuses to treat 'nasal reflex neurosis', resulting in profuse, recurrent nasal bleeding that left a half-metre of gauze in her nasal cavity.
Fliess believed that Emma Eckstein's symptoms were caused by habitual masturbation, which he claimed could be cured by removal of part of the middle turbinate.
Freud began his medical studies at the University of Vienna, where he was heavily influenced by Josef Breuer's work on hysteria and later developed his own theories on the human psyche.
Set up his clinical practice in Vienna, marking the beginning of his professional life as an independent practitioner and furthering his reputation as a specialist in neuropathology.
Resigned from his hospital post to enter private practice specializing in nervous disorders and got married to Martha Bernays on September 13th.
Freud set up in private practice in Vienna, marking the beginning of his independent career as a psychoanalyst and clinician.
Welcomed his first child, Mathilde Freud, born as a result of his marriage to Martha Bernays.
Freud met Wilhelm Fliess, a Berlin-based ear, nose, and throat specialist who shared similar interests and intellectual pursuits as Freud. Their meeting would prove to be a turning point in Freud's life and work.
Gave birth to his second child, Jean-Martin Freud, marking an expansion of his family.
Julius contributed to the discovery of the neuron, a groundbreaking finding that would shape his future research and impact the field of medicine significantly.
During his downtime from military service, Julius completed a translation commission for John Stuart Mill's works, further expanding his knowledge and skills.
Freud developed his seduction theory after most patients reported early childhood sexual abuse as a result of his treatment, leading him to re-evaluate his approach to psychoanalysis.
Freud used cocaine occasionally to treat depression, migraine, and nasal inflammation, demonstrating its potential benefits but also risking his own addiction and reputation.
During this period, Freud worked as a clinical assistant to Wilhelm A. Klein, further refining his understanding of the human mind and laying the groundwork for his future psychoanalytic theories.
Published the book "On Aphasia: A Critical Study", showcasing his intellectual prowess and expertise in neurological disorders.
Freud published his monograph on aphasia, 'Zur Auffassung der Aphasien,' which presented a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationship between language and brain function. This work showcased Freud's expertise in neuroscience and further established him as a leading figure in the field.
Welcomed his fourth child, Ernst Freud, further growing his family.
Gave birth to his fifth child, Sophie Freud, adding another member to the Freud family.
Became a father for the sixth time with the arrival of Anna Freud.
Freud published Studies on Hysteria, a groundbreaking work that showcased his early theories on hysteria and laid the foundation for his later development of psychoanalysis.
In October, Sigmund Freud proposed to Wilhelm Fliess that unconscious memories of infantile sexual abuse were at the root of psychoneuroses. This idea would go on to become a cornerstone of psychoanalytic theory and continue to influence Freud's work for years to come.
Freud's father passed away, an event that would have a profound impact on Freud's personal life and influence his future work in psychology and psychoanalysis.
Freud published three papers in the first half of 1896 that further developed his seduction theory, stating he had uncovered deeply repressed memories of sexual abuse in all of his current patients, which sparked controversy among his colleagues.
Delivered a speech on the interpretation of dreams as part of his induction into the German Jewish cultural association B'nai B'rith.
Discovered a Swiss hotel guestbook entry that would later become significant in understanding his life and work.
Freud published The Interpretation of Dreams, a seminal work that introduced the concept of the 'talking cure' and solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the field of psychoanalysis.
The Interpretation of Dreams
Original: Die Traumdeutung
Freud acquired Nietzsche's collected works, which he later stated was a significant influence on his own thoughts and ideas about the human condition.
The Standard Edition of the Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud
Freud published On Dreams and The Psychopathology of Everyday Life, two works that further established his theories on the human psyche and behavior.
A group of Viennese physicians met with Freud at his apartment every Wednesday afternoon to discuss psychology and neuropathology, marking a significant turning point in his professional development and networking opportunities.
Sigmund Freud was appointed as a professor extraordinarius at the University of Vienna, securing his long-standing ambition to become a university professor and marking an important milestone in his academic career.
Herbert Graf, also known as Little Hans, was born to a Jewish family in Vienna, Austria-Hungary. His case history with Freud is considered one of the most famous and influential in psychoanalysis.
The Russian translation of Sigmund Freud's 'The Interpretation of Dreams' was published, marking a significant milestone in the dissemination of psychoanalytic ideas in Russia.
The Psychopathology of Everyday Life
Original: Zur psychopathologie des alltagsleben
Freud published Jokes and their Relation to the Unconscious and Three Essays on the Theory of Sexuality, two works that explored the relationship between humor and the unconscious mind, as well as human sexuality.
Freud conducted a notable case study known as Fragment of an Analysis of a Case of Hysteria, also referred to as the 'Dora' case study, which provided valuable insights into the therapeutic relationship and the treatment of hysteria.
Freud introduced the idea of oral, anal, and phallic developmental phases in his psychosexual development theory,
Three Contributions to the Theory of Sex
Original: Drei Abhandlungen zur Sexualtheorie
The Vienna Psychoanalytic Society grew to 16 members under Freud's leadership, including Otto Rank, marking a significant expansion of the group's membership and influence.
Jung and Ludwig Binswanger visited Freud in Vienna, where they engaged in discussions about psychoanalysis and its applications, laying the groundwork for their future collaborations with Freud.
Published 'Obsessive Actions and Religious Practices', which laid the groundwork for future works on psychoanalysis, including his exploration of the human psyche's relationship with religion.
Freud acknowledged that he occasionally read Nietzsche and was strongly fascinated by his writings. This recognition marked an important shift in Freud's intellectual trajectory as he began to explore new ideas and perspectives.
On Wednesday, April 27, 1908, the first International Psychoanalytic Congress was convened, bringing together prominent psychoanalysts from around the world to discuss key issues and establish a framework for international cooperation.
In September 1909, Freud traveled to the United States, accompanied by Jung and Ferenczi, where they met with American intellectuals and medical professionals to promote psychoanalysis and establish connections with potential supporters.
Alfred Adler began to question his views on psychoanalysis, marking a significant change in his perspective.
Sigmund Freud publishes Analysis of a Phobia in a Five-year-old Boy, which includes a footnote with antisemitic theory.
Selected Papers on Hysteria and Other Psychoneuroses
Original: Selected papers on hysteria and other psychoneuroses
At the Nuremberg Congress in May 1910, Jung was elected as the first president of an international association of psychoanalysts, marking a significant milestone in the development of the movement and cementing his position as a leading figure in the field.
The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) was founded, which would later become a central organization for Adler's Individual Psychology movement.
Abraham and Eitingon founded the Berlin Psychoanalytic Society, laying the groundwork for the development of psychoanalysis in Germany.
Freud worked on Project for a Scientific Psychology, where he defined the mental apparatus's tendency to reduce tension to zero, laying the groundwork for his later theories on the human psyche. However, Freud later abandoned this definition due to its limitations in explaining the complexities of human behavior.
Freud introduced the concept of libido as a form of mental energy with which processes, structures, and object-representations are invested, marking a significant shift in his understanding of human motivation and behavior.
In May 1911, the American Psychoanalytic Association was founded, further solidifying Freud's influence in the United States and expanding the reach of psychoanalysis globally.
In February, Adler resigned as president of the Viennese Psychoanalytic Society due to disagreements with Sigmund Freud and his associates, including Jones and Brill.
By June, Adler had fully departed from the Freudian group and formed a new organization with Ferenczi as his companion on the US visit.
The new organization, initially unnamed, was later renamed to reflect its distinct focus on Individual Psychology.
Ernest Jones, a British psychiatrist, helped establish the American Psychoanalytic Association, expanding psychoanalytic influence in North America.
Ernest Jones returned to Britain from Canada, bringing with him valuable experience and expertise that would shape the development of psychoanalysis in the UK.
Freud developed the concept of polymorphous perversity during his work on human sexuality,
Released 'Totem and Taboo', a work that delved into the symbolism and cultural significance of totemism, shedding light on the human experience through anthropological observations.
Totem and Taboo
Original: Totem und Tabu
Freud formulated his concept of repression and wrote papers 'Repression' and 'The Unconscious', laying the groundwork for his theory of unconscious mental processes in psychology.
Introductory Lectures on Psycho-Analysis
Original: Vorlesungen zur Einführung in die Psychoanalyse
Freud noticed a painful lesion on the roof of his mouth while giving a lecture at the University of Vienna. He later diagnosed it as leukoplakia or epithelioma, brought on by his smoking habit.
Freud published his essay 'Mourning and Melancholia', providing context on the psychological impact of grief and melancholy on individuals. This publication further solidified Freud's reputation as a leading figure in psychoanalytic theory and practice.
Freud hypothesized about two conflicting drives in the human psyche: the life drive (libido) and the death drive. This concept, presented in 'Beyond the Pleasure Principle', would go on to shape Freud's later theories on the human psyche and behavior.
Freud described the death drive as a regulatory principle with various names, including 'the principle of psychic inertia' and 'Nirvana principle'. This concept challenged traditional notions of human motivation and behavior, introducing a new perspective on the human condition.
A History of Psychoanalysis
Original: Zur Geschichte der psychoanalytischen Bewegung
Ernest Jones dissolved the London Psychoanalytic Society and founded the British Psychoanalytical Society, marking a significant turning point in the establishment of psychoanalysis in Britain.
After initially being denied the post, Sigmund Freud received the title 'professor ordinarius' at the University of Vienna, solidifying his position as a renowned university professor and cementing his legacy in the field of psychoanalysis.
Abraham and Eitingon founded the Berlin Psychoanalytic Institute and Poliklinik, providing a hub for training and research in psychoanalysis.
Freud published 'Beyond the Pleasure Principle', introducing the pleasure principle and its relation to immediate gratification,
Wilhelm Reich develops his ideas about character and specifies orgasm as the criteria of healthy function, laying the groundwork for his future work on Actualneurosis.
Dream Psychology
Beyond the Pleasure Principle
Original: Jenseits des Lustprinzips
Mass Psychology and Analysis of the 'I' and Other Works (1920-1923)
Original: Psicologia das Massas e Análise do Eu e Outros Textos. 1920-1923
Introduction to Dream Psychology
Original: Dream psychology: Psychoanalysis for Beginners
The Moscow Psychoanalytic Society was re-established as the Russian Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, solidifying the presence of psychoanalysis in Russia.
An Introduction to Psycho-Analysis
Original: Introduction a la psychanalyse
The growth of Freud's oral cancer had spread, and he identified it as leukoplakia or epithelioma, prompting him to seek treatment from various doctors, including Maximilian Steiner and Felix Deutsch.
Freud published 'The Ego and the Id', introducing a second topography of psychic structure and further developing his psychoanalytic theories about human behavior and mental processes.
Freud developed the concept of id, ego, and super-ego in his book The Ego and the Id,
Paul Rank published 'The Trauma of Birth', which further solidified Adler's views on Individual Psychology and led to a significant disagreement with Freud.
Joseph Stalin's rise to power led to the cancellation of state support for psychoanalysis, prompting Ernest Jones to re-establish his British Psychoanalytical Society.
Rank resigned from his official posts in the IPA and left Vienna for Paris, marking an important turning point in the development of Adler's Individual Psychology movement.
Ernest Jones established the London Clinic of Psychoanalysis, providing a comprehensive center for psychoanalytic treatment and research in Britain.
Ernst Simmel founded the Schloss Tegel Sanatorium on the outskirts of Berlin, offering a unique setting for psychoanalytic treatment and research.
Published 'The Future of an Illusion', a seminal text that examined the relationship between religion and the human psyche, offering insights into the psychological roots of spiritual beliefs.
I and the Id
Original: Ich und das Es
Inhibitions, Symptoms and Anxiety
Original: Inhibitions, Symptom und Angst
The Future of an Illusion
Original: Zukunft einer Illusion
The Diary of Sigmund Freud (1929-1939)
Original: Das Tagebuch Sigmund Freuds. 1929-1939
Released 'Civilization and Its Discontents', a work that critically evaluated the social and cultural norms of modern society, highlighting the tensions between individual desire and societal expectations.
American psychologists began attempting to study repression in the experimental laboratory, marking a significant shift in the field of psychotherapy towards empirical research.
The Schloss Tegel Sanatorium was forced to close due to economic reasons, marking a significant setback in the development of psychoanalysis in Germany.
The New York Psychoanalytic Institute was founded by Eitingon, marking the beginning of psychoanalytic training in North America. This development was significant for the global spread of Freud's ideas.
Freud publishes an edition of Civilization and its Discontents, where he expresses his pessimism about the future of civilization.
A psychoanalytic society was established in Italy, expanding the reach of psychoanalysis beyond Europe and contributing to its growth worldwide.
Psychoanalytic societies were established in the Netherlands, Norway, and Palestine (Jerusalem), further solidifying psychoanalysis as a global movement under Freud's leadership.
The International Training Commission was established within the IPA to address concerns about psychoanalytic theory and practice. This marked a significant shift in the organization's focus towards professional development.
Saul Rosenzweig sent Freud reprints of his attempts to study repression, but received a dismissive response from Freud, highlighting the challenges of integrating experimental methods into psychoanalytic theory.
Sigmund Freud was elected as a Foreign Member of the Royal Society, recognizing his contributions to science and intellectual pursuits.
Published 'Moses and Monotheism', a book that explored the origins of monotheistic religions and their impact on human culture, demonstrating Freud's ongoing interest in comparative mythology and cultural analysis.
Faced the threat of Nazi persecution due to Austria's annexation by Germany on March 1938, prompting Freud to leave Austria in search of safety and eventually relocating to exile in the United Kingdom.
The Freuds decided to leave Vienna due to the increasing danger of persecution by the Nazis, fearing for their lives and the future of psychoanalysis in Europe.
Ernest Jones flew into Vienna on March 15 to persuade Freud to seek exile in Britain, convincing him that it was the safest option for his family's well-being.
The International Psychoanalytical Association (IPA) supported Freud's decision to leave Vienna, providing emotional and practical support during this difficult time.
Sir Samuel Hoare, the Home Secretary, was persuaded by Jones to expedite the granting of immigration permits for Freud and his party, making their escape to Britain more likely.
William Bullitt, American ambassador to France, alerted U.S. President Roosevelt to the dangers facing the Freuds, highlighting the need for international support during this crisis.
The American consul-general in Vienna, John Cooper Wiley, arranged regular monitoring of Berggasse 19, Freud's home and psychoanalytic practice, to ensure their safety.
William Bullitt intervened by phone during Anna Freud's Gestapo interrogation, providing emotional support and potentially influencing the outcome of her questioning.
Minna Bernays left for London on May 5, marking an important step in the family's relocation and separation from their home and psychoanalytic practice.
Martin Freud left for London on May 12, following his wife Minna's departure, as part of the family's gradual exodus from Vienna.
Mathilde and her husband Robert Hollitscher left for London on May 24, completing the evacuation of Freud's immediate family members from Vienna.
Freud moved into his new family home in Hampstead, marking a significant change in his personal life and living arrangements.
Died on September 23rd in London, UK, where he had taken refuge from Nazi persecution, marking the end of his life's journey as a renowned figure in psychology and psychoanalysis.
Freud's cancer diagnosis worsened, causing severe pain and necessitating medical treatment.
Sigmund Freud passed away on September 23rd in London, England, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to shape modern psychology and psychotherapy.
C.S. Lewis, aged 40, met with Sigmund Freud, aged 83, at Freud's house in Hampstead, London. This encounter between two prominent thinkers from different fields had a lasting impact on both men's perspectives on human nature and the role of religion in society.