Countess Alexandra Tolstoy, also known as Aleksandra Tolstaya, was a Russian-American humanitarian and author, who is best known for her work in preserving her father’s legacy and helping refugees during and after the Second World War. She was born on July 1, 1884, in Yasnaya Polyana, Russia, and passed away on September 26, 1979, in Valley Cottage, New York.
Personal and Family Life
Alexandra was the youngest daughter of the famous Russian writer Lev Tolstoy and his wife Sofia Andreevna Bers. Throughout her life, she closely assisted her father in literary matters, handling much of his secretarial work. Even after the death of Lev Tolstoy in 1910, she continued to maintain the Tolstoy archive and worked to keep his ideas alive.
Career and Contributions
Alexandra Tolstoy was deeply influenced by her father’s beliefs in non-violence and social justice. During World War I, she took a stand by organizing efforts to help wounded soldiers, ultimately earning three Medals of the Order of St. George and achieving the rank of Colonel. Additionally, after fleeing from the political turmoil following the Russian Revolution, she settled in the United States and co-founded the Tolstoy Foundation in 1939, which assisted numerous refugees in escaping political oppression.
Death and Legacy
Countess Alexandra Tolstoy passed away at the age of 96 on September 26, 1979, and was laid to rest in the Russian cemetery of Spring Valley, New York. Her legacy endures through the Tolstoy Foundation, which has continued to support those in need, reflecting her commitment to humanitarian causes and the ideals of her father, Lev Tolstoy.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Martin the Cobbler | 1977-06-01 | Narrator (voice) |