The History of a Forgotten German Camp: Nazi Ideology and Genocide at Szmalcówka (Genocide and Holocaust Studies)

Although often overlooked, anti-Polish sentiment was central to Nazi ideology. At the outset of World War II, Hitler initiated a process of 'depolonization' (Entpolonisierung) which resulted in the death or displacement of a significant number of Polish people living in Nazi-occupied territories. By examining policies of indirect extermination through a detailed study of Szmalcowka, a 'displacement' camp located in Toru? in Reichsgau Danzig-West Prussia, Tomasz Ceran explores the terrible consequences of Nazi ideology. He provides both an in-depth historical account of a little-known camp and an important analysis of Nazi practices and policy-making in the Polish territories which were annexed. A strong addition to World War II literature, Ceran's book is essential reading for scholars and students interested in World War II, Polish History, Nazi ideology and the nature of violence and resilience. Cover 1 Half-title 3 Title 5 Copyright 6 Dedication 7 Contents 9 List of Tables and Figures 10 Acknowledgements 12 Introduction 15 1. An Ideological Crusade 25 2. Entpolonisierung: The Depolonization of German Prussia 48 3. Behind the Gates of Szmalcówka 64 4. ‘Lessons in Work, Cleanliness and Discipline . . .’ 105 5. A Closed Story? 141 Epilogue 176 Appendix 1 181 Appendix 2 203 Notes 204 Bibliography 230 Index 239 Examines the Nazi process that resulted in the death or displacement of a significant number of Poles living in Nazi-occupied territories. Focuses on the camp in Reichsgau Danzig-West Prussia, documenting both the daily operations of the camp and wider Nazi ideology and practice.