Chosen Issues in Holocaust History

Yad Vashem via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/chosenissues

Introduction

### Course Review: Chosen Issues in Holocaust History on Coursera In a world that must always remember its past to avoid repeating it, the course **Chosen Issues in Holocaust History** offered on Coursera stands out as an essential educational experience. This course delves into the multifaceted aspects of the Holocaust, a topic both chilling and critical for students of history, politics, and social justice. #### Overview The course promises a comprehensive exploration of the Holocaust, presenting central topics through new and thought-provoking perspectives. Designed for individuals seeking a deep understanding of the historical events, social dynamics, and ideological shifts of this tragic era, the curriculum offers insights that challenge preconceived notions and encourage critical thinking. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Nazi Germany: 1933-1939** Led by Professor Guy Meron, this initial chapter serves as a gateway into the interwar years and the rise of Nazi ideology. It provides an essential backdrop through which students can comprehend how the foundations of anti-Jewish policies were laid. The fall of the Weimar Republic and the subsequent rise of the Nazis set the stage for tragic events to come. 2. **The Outbreak of World War II and Anti-Jewish Policies, 1939-1941** Professor Dan Michman tackles the complexities of Nazi anti-Jewish policies following the outbreak of WWII. By examining the experiences of Jews across occupied territories and the establishment of ghettos, this chapter contextualizes the horror and systematic oppression faced by the Jewish community. 3. **The Formulation and Implementation of the "Final Solution", 1941-1945** Dr. David Silberklang opens a critical dialogue about the "Final Solution," guiding students through various historiographical approaches. This chapter is particularly impactful, as it delves into the grim realities of mass murder and the mechanization of genocide. The insight into the operations of death camps is both informative and emotionally disturbing, reflecting the sheer scale of the atrocities. 4. **The Image of "the Jew" in Nazi Antisemitism - Visuals and Typology** Dr. Robert Rosett addresses how antisemitism has evolved, focusing on the portrayal of Jews within Nazi propaganda. This chapter challenges learners to recognize the visual and ideological constructs that fueled hatred and violence, encouraging an analytical approach to understanding prejudice. 5. **Key Stages in the History of World War II and The Deportations** Dr. Joel Zisenwine’s lectures on pivotal moments of WWII and the deportations of Jews to concentration camps bolster the historical framework established earlier in the course, vividly detailing the escalating violence. 6. **The World After the Holocaust: Trauma, Memory, and Culture** Ending with a deeply reflective tone, this chapter highlights the enduring impact of the Holocaust on collective memory and culture. Featuring prominent figures like historian Prof. Omar Bartov and Holocaust survivor Roman Frister, this segment emphasizes personal narratives and the importance of memory in shaping our understanding of history. #### Recommendations **Chosen Issues in Holocaust History** is not only a course about a pivotal moment in history but also a profound examination of human behaviors, ideologies, and the consequences of hatred. Each chapter is rich with academic rigor, supported by testimonies, original documents, and primary and secondary sources, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in history, sociology, or human rights advocacy. It is particularly suitable for educators, students, and individuals looking to deepen their understanding of the Holocaust's complexity and its lasting repercussions on contemporary society. In summary, **Chosen Issues in Holocaust History** is an enlightening and compelling course that deserves a prominent place in the learning paths of those who wish to truly understand the Holocaust. Through the expert guidance of respected historians and engaging materials, participants are given the opportunity not just to learn, but to reflect, discuss, and contribute toward a more informed and empathetic society.

Syllabus

Nazi Germany: 1933-1939

In this chapter, the first of the course, we will learn together with Professor Guy Meron about Nazi Germany between 1933-1939. The chapter begins with an overview of the state of European Jewry during the interwar years. It will explore the fall of the Weimar Republic and the rise of the Nazi regime to power, as well as the implementation of anti-Jewish policies until the outbreak of World War II in 1939.

The Outbreak of World War II and Anti-Jewish Policies, 1939-1941

Under the direction of Professor Dan Michman, this chapter will focus on Nazi Germany's anti-Jewish policies, from the outbreak of the war until 1941. We will identify different regime patterns in countries under German occupation and their anti-Jewish policies. We will also learn about the so-called "Jewish Council" (Judenrat), the establishment of ghettos and the lives of Jews within and outside of them during the Holocaust.

The Formulation and Implementation of the "Final Solution", 1941-1945

Together with Dr David Silberklang, in this chapter, we will discuss the formulation and implementation of the "Final Solution". Dr Silberklang will explain different historiographical approaches to the development of the "Final Solution", will discuss Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union and the beginning of the mass murders. We will also explore the establishment of the death camps, as well as the life of prisoners in the various camps.

The Image of "the Jew" in Nazi Antisemitism - Visuals and Typology

In this chapter, Dr Robert Rosett will describe the development of antisemitism throughout the ages and the evolution of the image of the Jewish figure within it. We will explore modern, political and racial antisemitism in the 19th century, as well as Nazi ideology.

Key Stages in the History of World War II and The Deportations

Two main subjects are raised in Dr Joel Zisenwine lectures found in this chapter: The key stages in the history of world war II and the deportation of Jews to camps during the Holocaust.

The World After the Holocaust: Trauma, Memory and Culture

The issues discussed in this chapter are taken from Yad Vashem's learning center "Reflections After the Holocaust" , situated in the museum complex. The speakers include historian Prof. Omar Bartov, author David Grossman and Father Emile Shoufani and Holocaust survivor and journalist Roman Frister. The chapter consists of three sub-chapters, each containing one video lecture. Alongside them, you will find testimonies, original documents, discussion prompts, and primary and secondary sources.