Known as the ‘Japanese Schindler,’ Chiune Sugihara risked his job and reputation to save thousands of Jewish lives. Sugihara was born in Japan on January 1, 1900. During World War II, the Japanese diplomat devoted 18 to 20 hours a day to writing and signing transit visas for over 6,000 Jews. When the time came for their departure, Sugihara said, “Please forgive me. I cannot write anymore. I wish you the best.” His heroic actions are estimated to have saved the lives of approximately 100,000 people, descendants of those he rescued. On October 4, 1984, Yad Vashem recognized Sugihara as Righteous Among the Nations.
