What is the Holocaust?

A Clear Explanation of One of History’s Darkest Events

The Holocaust was the systematic, state-sponsored persecution and murder of six million Jews by Nazi Germany and its collaborators during World War II. This genocide also targeted millions of others, including Romani people, disabled individuals, political prisoners, and others seen as “enemies” of the Nazi regime.

What Does the Word “Holocaust” Mean?

The word “Holocaust” comes from a Greek word meaning “sacrifice by fire.” It’s used to describe the Nazi genocide between 1941 and 1945, mainly focused on Jews in Europe.

Why Did the Holocaust Happen?

The Holocaust was driven by Adolf Hitler’s antisemitic ideology, which falsely blamed Jews for Germany’s economic problems and political instability. Hitler believed in racial purity and wanted to eliminate those he considered “inferior.”

Who Were the Victims?

The Holocaust primarily targeted Jews, but other groups were also persecuted and killed:

• Jews – Over 6 million murdered

• Romani people (Gypsies) – 200,000–500,000 killed

• People with disabilities – Tens of thousands killed in the “euthanasia” program

• Polish civilians – Over 1.8 million killed

• Soviet prisoners of war – Around 3 million died

• Others – Political dissidents, LGBTQ+ individuals, Jehovah’s Witnesses

How Was the Holocaust Carried Out?

1. Nazi Propaganda – Spread lies to turn public opinion against Jews and others

2. Ghettos – Jews were forced to live in crowded, poor neighborhoods

3. Deportations – People were transported by train to concentration and death camps

4. Concentration Camps – Prisoners were held, tortured, and worked to death

5. Extermination Camps – Places like Auschwitz and Treblinka where mass killings occurred using gas chambers

When Did the Holocaust Happen?

• 1933 – Hitler comes to power

• 1939 – WWII begins

• 1941–1945 – The “Final Solution” and mass extermination

• 1945 – Allied forces liberate the camps and defeat Nazi Germany

Why Is the Holocaust Important Today?

The Holocaust teaches us the dangers of hate, racism, and silence. It reminds the world of how quickly prejudice can turn into violence. Remembering the Holocaust is essential to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again.

Final Thoughts

The Holocaust was not just a tragedy of the past — it’s a warning for the future.
Understanding what happened, why it happened, and how it happened helps protect human rights today.