Laskers

Laskers is a surname of German and Ashkenazi Jewish origin. It has been associated with several prominent individuals in fields such as chess, advertising, and philanthropy, as well as with institutions and awards named in their honor.

Emanuel Lasker (1868–1941) was a German-born chess grandmaster who held the World Chess Championship title from 1894 to 1921, one of the longest reigns in the game's history. He was also a mathematician and writer, contributing to chess theory and the study of the game’s strategic aspects.

Albert Lasker (1868–1952) was an American advertising executive who helped shape modern advertising through mass-market campaigns, market research, and the professionalization of brand promotion. He founded the Chicago agency Lord & Thomas, and his work and fundraising efforts later connected to medical philanthropy pursued by his family.

Mary Lasker (1900–1994) was an American philanthropist and civic activist who championed medical research funding and public health. She played a pivotal role in expanding support for the National Institutes of Health and in shaping public opinion and policy around cancer research through long-term advocacy with her husband and family.

The Albert and Mary Lasker Foundation administers the Lasker Awards, among the most prestigious honors in medical research. The awards recognize achievements in basic and clinical research as well as public service, and they are closely watched as indicators of high-impact work in the biomedical sciences.

In addition to these figures, the name Lasker appears in other contexts, including institutions and foundations established or funded by the family. The Laskers’ legacy thus spans competitive achievement, advertising innovation, and sustained support for medical science.