Zaharoff, Basil (1850-1936)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1936 Dec 2 p. 1

Birth date: 1850

text of obituary:

DEATH CALLS WORLD'S FAMOUS MUNITIONS KING

Sir Basil Zaharoff of France, a merchant of death, who through death dealing machines amassed a vast fortune, died last week at his home at Monte Carlo. Thus came to a close one of the most mysterious careers of recent history, since Zaharoff largely remained in seclusion in spite of his powerful influence over parliaments and kings. From a munitions salesman in his youth, he rose to the position of principal stockholder in the larges munitions factories of Europe. According to reports, he held shares also in leading armament firms of the United States.

Although of a quiet disposition, he succeeded in selling arms to both sides of warring factions and war was his principal "stock in trade".

During his lifetime rulers and kings honored him, and according to a report, even Woodrow Wilson took him into confidence during the World War days.

Death, his ally in gaining his large fortune, now called on him at the age of 86 years.