He studied classical literature and history at the Universities of Bonn and Strasbourg, and in 1904 received his doctorate of philosophy. In 1912 he became a full professor at Strasbourg, and during the same year was appointed professor at the University of Giessen. From 1914 to 1918 he performed military duties during World War I, and in 1919 returned to Giessen, where he remained until 1930. Laqueur was rector at the university in 1922-23.