Otto Kade (1927–1980) – zum 100. Geburtstag eines Wegbereiters

Abstract The first dissertation in Germany on the theoretical problems of translation processes was defended by Otto Kade (Leipzig University) in 1964. Kade dedicated his life to translation studies and became the first professor of the discipline in East Germany in 1969. This article deals with his life and his work in translation theory, didactics, and practice. Since 1963, Kade also lectured at Humboldt University in Berlin, where the author of this article became his doctoral student and later the first lecturer in translation studies. As one of the founders of translation studies, Kade had a significant influence on the development of the discipline, trying to create a general theory of translation and to define the basic terms of the discipline, e. g., translation as a generic term for translating and interpreting, and Translationswissenschaft as a term for the new discipline. Up to the present day, several scholars refer to his work and his definitions of the basic terms of translation studies. Kade established the first curriculum for university training of translators and interpreters in East Germany.