The world mourns the loss of Dr. Thomas Goltz, a distinguished American author and military journalist, known for his groundbreaking work and influential writings on the Caucasus region. He passed away at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Dr. Thomas Goltz was widely recognized for his contributions to social and human studies of Azerbaijan, particularly through his acclaimed book “Azerbaijan Diary.” He was not only a talented writer but also a compassionate individual who passionately supported the people of Southern Caucasus.
Born in Japan and raised in North Dakota, Dr. Goltz earned an MA in Middle Eastern Studies from New York University. Over the past three decades, he dedicated himself to reporting on conflicts in the Caucasus area, including Azerbaijan and Armenia’s battle over Karabakh and the separatist strife in Chechnya.
His remarkable career also included producing the documentary “Rights and Wrongs” for Global Vision, which was a finalist for the 1996 Rory Peck Award for outstanding television journalism.
In addition to his journalistic accomplishments, Dr. Goltz was fluent in several languages, including German, Turkish, Arabic, Azerbaijani, and Russian. He spent part of the year working abroad and the other half in Montana, where he held part-time teaching positions at Montana State University and the University of Montana.
Dr. Thomas Goltz authored several notable books, such as “Georgia Diary,” “Chechnya Diary,” and “Assassinating Shakespeare: The True Confessions of a Bard in the Bush.” His most recent works, “Turkiye” and “Oil Odyssey,” were released in 2021 and offered unique insights into his experiences and encounters with various nations.
The passing of Dr. Goltz on July 29, 2023, has left the journalism community grieving and reflecting on his significant contributions to the field. His knowledge, dedication, and willingness to bring attention to critical issues in the Caucasus region will be greatly missed.
As of now, the exact cause of Dr. Thomas Goltz’s death has not been publicly disclosed. He had battled various health challenges, including intestinal diseases, cancer, and neuropathy, over an extended period. However, the specific circumstances surrounding his passing have not been officially revealed.
Tributes from friends, colleagues, and admirers continue to pour in on social media, honoring his memory and celebrating the impact he had on their lives. Dr. Goltz’s family and loved ones are in the thoughts and prayers of many during this difficult time.
The journalism community and those who knew him personally will forever cherish the legacy of Dr. Thomas Goltz. His work and dedication to shedding light on critical issues in the Caucasus region have left an indelible mark, ensuring that he will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.