The Holocaust

Chapter 37: The Holocaust

Definition of Genocide

• The term “genocide” was adopted post World War II to categorize the systematic, state-run murder of the European Jews by the Nazi regime.

• "Genocide" literally translates to “murder of a people.”

• Though genocide is not exclusive to the 20th century (historically noted since ancient times), the Holocaust exemplifies a meticulously bureaucratic execution of genocide, distinguished from earlier forms.

Nature of the Holocaust

• Characterized by:
    - Industrial methods of extermination
    - Use of gas chambers made by Nazi affiliates or private contractors

• Majority involved blood-soaked massacres (e.g., the Armenian Genocide) but uniquely employed industrialization in killings.

• War II would have simply been a costly endeavor were it not for the Holocaust.

Terminology

• The term "Holocaust" derives from ancient Jewish rituals involving offerings burned by fire.

• In the U.S., "Holocaust" is predominant, whereas the term "Shoah" (Hebrew for