Introduction:

Prior to World War I, Germany had fallen into its own depression, suffering from severe economic strain and unemployment. The newly appointed chancellor at the time, Adolf Hitler, saw this as an opportunity for his Nazi Party to thrive. Through persuasive speeches in Berlin, Hitler was able to captivate young, employed, and lower middle class German citizens. As anti-Semitism spread through the country, Jewish families living in Germany and other neighboring countries began to emigrate. Harsh treatment towards Jewish communities and the lack of international support weakened the hopes for all Jews who were attempting to flee. For more than a decade, the Jewish population in western Europe had a long struggle of constant fear for their lives. With the help of western Allies, Jewish communities were set up to create self governing organizations. These safe havens supported those who survived the difficult times under Nazi rule, and helped them reach their final destination, the Jewish homeland in Palestine (Israel).

Nazi Party:

The Nazi Party transformed into a mass movement controlling Germany from 1933 to 1945.  Under the Hitlers rule, all political parties were banned, leaving him at full command, which opened the gates for his Nazi government to control all aspects of Germany.  Ideologies of the Nazi Party were based around anti-semitic actions towards all Jews in Europe, especially in Germany.  Concentration camps were opened to detain and enslaving Jews for over a decade. The spread of anti-Semitism sprouted the large numbers of immigrants in attempt to flee from Germany and other german-speaking countries.

About the Author:

I am a First-Year student at Gettysburg College, studying Mathematical Economics. I am currently taking a first-year seminar class, Migration: Now and Then. I was inspired to research Jewish Migration by my grandfather, who was living in Germany during the WWII era. Although he did not face the adversity that other went through, I am still moved by his stories each and every day. As difficult as this topic is, I am glad I am now more knowledgeable about such an important part of history.