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Dive into WWII history by analyzing primary source documents on the Auschwitz bombings, discussing decision complexities, and connecting them to modern leadership choices. Explore ethical dilemmas and military objectives of the war.
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Bombing Auschwitz:Analyzing and Evaluating Primary Source Documents Author: Sandy RenkenUSHMM Museum Teacher Fellow 2006
Student Objectives: • Students will: • Analyze primary source documents for available information • Teach classmates necessary information from documents. • Analyze the complexities of decisions made during war, especially in regard to humanitarian crises • Make connections to the decision made during WWII & today by our current leaders
Background Information Check for Understanding- • The Complex • During the Spring and Summer of 1944, what was taking place at Auschwitz-Birkenau? • What was Auschwitz I? • What was Auschwitz II? • What was Auschwitz III?
The Railways • Why were the rail lines critical to the Nazi exterminations that were taking place? • Information Available • What information was available to the Allies and how did they get this information?
Group Activity #1 • Students will be divided into groups and given a primary source document to analyze. • One person should read the document to the group. • A second person should summarize what the group will write on their graphic organizer.
Group Activity #2 • Students will now be divided into groups where each member will have a different primary source document. • Each person should share their document in the order that is on the graphic organizer. • A leader should summarize what each person is going to put on the graphic organizer. • If students finish early, they should discuss their feelings on a potential bombing of Auschwitz.
Closing Discussion • What would bombing the rail lines do? • The U.S. War Department says Auschwitz-Birkenau is not in bombing range. How do you respond? • What would be the consequences of bombing the camps?
Closing Discussion cont. • What were the military objectives for the war? • Could a bombing by the Allies fuel a German propaganda campaign? • Could the bombing of Auschwitz be considered a violation of International Law? • Additional questions?
