Rav Yitzchak Meir Alter

The Chidushei HaRim, founder of the Ger dynasty (1799-1866). He traced his lineage to the Maharam of Rothenburg. His mother was raised by the Kozhnitzer Maggid. He was a disciple of Rav Simcha Bunam of Pshis'cha and Rav Menachem Mendel of Kotzk. At his first gathering as leader, he declared: "Reb Simcha Bunam led with love, and Reb Menachem Mendel with fear. I will lead with Torah!" He had 13 children and outlived them all, yet accepted this tremendous personal tragedy with love.