American Experience: America and the Holocaust
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This episode of The American Experience examines the role of the United States in the Holocaust, exploring such issues as American antisemitism and the deliberate suppression of information that European Jews were slated for genocide.
Nazi Telegram with Instructions for Kristallnacht, November 10, 1938
A translation of a telegram sent from Reinhard Heydrich, Major General of the SS, on November 10, 1938, that instructed local German officers on how to carry out the anti-Jewish measures that became known as Kristallnacht.
Nazi Telegram with Instructions for Kristallnacht, November 10, 1938 (en español)
A translation of a telegram sent from Reinhard Heydrich, Major General of the SS, on November 10, 1938, that instructed local German officers on how to carry out the anti-Jewish measures that became known as Kristallnacht. This resource is in Spanish.
Betraying the Youth
Former Nazi youth member Alfons Heck reflects on coming to terms with Germany’s role and his own part in the Holocaust.
Which Political Party?
Use this handout for a class activity pairing fictional biographies of German citizens with the political parties that students think would most appeal to each citizen.
The Business of Slave Labor
Learn about the use of slave labor by German companies and manufacturers during World War II.
Close Reading Guide: Hitler’s Speech
Use this handout to help students analyze "Hitler's First Radio Address" speech deeply and decipher the many messages.
Justice after the Holocaust Anticipation Guide
Use this handout to help students analyze the main issues that the Allies faced as they tried to figure out how to achieve justice after World War II and the Holocaust.
Justice after the Holocaust Anticipation Guide (en español)
Use this handout to help students analyze the main issues that the Allies faced as they tried to figure out how to achieve justice after World War II and the Holocaust. This resource is in Spanish.
Creating a Found Poem
Creating a “found poem” from a Holocaust survivor’s testimony can be a way to pay respectful attention to and honor his or her experiences.
Choices that Define Us
Explore three stories of choices people made during World War II and consider their complexities, their impact, and what they can teach about human behavior.