Elsa Einstein is Einstein’s cousin and they have known each other since childhood. In 1896 she marries Max Löwenthal, a textile entrepreneur from Swabia. Their marriage, which ends in divorce in 1908, produces two daughters, Ilse (born 1897) and Margot (born 1899).

During Einstein’s first visit to Berlin in the spring of 1912, Elsa and Albert renew their old acquaintance, which soon develops into a romance. When Einstein falls seriously ill in 1917/18 Elsa cares for him devotedly. They marry in 1919, and Elsa enjoys life at the side of her famous husband as well as in Berlin society. Emigration to America represents a sharp break in her life. Her final years are overshadowed by severe illness.