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EINSTEIN, Albert (1879–1955). An Important Typed Letter Signed (“A. Einstein”) to Mr. Sol Stein Regarding the Communist Party and Democracy. Princeton, New Jersey: March 10, 1954. 1 page (279 x 216 mm), on embossed personal stationery, written in English from his 112 Mercer Street home. Folds visible, small closed tear to upper margin with old tape repair to verso. EINSTEIN ON COMMUNISM AND DEMOCRACY. The first letter of correspondence from Sol Stein to Einstein can be seen at the Einstein Papers Project at Caltech where Stein prompts a response from Einstein with his inquiry: “What do you think about the nature of Communism and what are the best methods of combatting its influence?” Seen here, Einstein responds: “I am unable to connect a clear meaning with the expression ‘the nature of Communism’. I know, however, quite well that the Communist Party has made use of methods which contributed considerably to the creation of the atmosphere of mutual distrust so characteristic for our present situation in public life. A democracy has one effective tool to counteract harmful influences of any kind, namely enlightenment through free and objective discussion of all problems concerning the public interest. This is a powerful tool, always effective and the only one a democracy has at its disposal. Sincerely yours, Albert Einstein”.