1933-39: The Persecution of the Jews until 1939 Flashcards
How far did ordinary German people have a part to play in the persecution of the Jews?
❑ Few German people actively tried to help the Jews but risked their own lives to do this due to the harsh punishments they would receive themselves.
❑ Some German people were horrified by what was happening to the Jews but were too frightened to challenge the Nazis.
❑ Some German people knew about what was happening but turned a blind eye to it and pretended it wasn’t happening.
Their personal struggles were more important.
❑ Some German people openly supported the Nazi beliefs and
actions against the Jews and actively took part in their
persecution.
❑ Some German people were not aware of the more extreme actions agains the Jews and the Nazis kept them a secret.
The long term causes of anti semitism?
The way they looked
Jewish religious customs such as their appearance made Jews stand out as ‘different’.
Their religious beliefs
Their religious beliefs were different to Christianity. Many Christians blamed Jews for the execution of Christ.
Jealousy
Many Jews had been very successful in business and finance, even during economic problems. This created jealously.
Science
Scientific views of Charles Darwin & the belief of Eugenics promoted the idea that Jews were not part of the Master Race.
The short term causes of anti semitism?
Jews are not German’
Germany was created as a single country in 1871. A way of promoting Germany was to promote being a true German. Jews were made to feel ‘un-German’.
Someone to blame
During hard times, e.g. the loss of war, the Versailles Treaty and economic depression, it was easier to blame another group such as the Jews. A person who is blamed for something they did not do is a ‘scapegoat’.
The influence of politicians
Many nationalist politicians such as Hitler publically spoke against Jews. This made being Anti-Semitic even more acceptable and believed.
