Charting the evolution of the camp and the mentality and motivations of the people running it.
Origins
Jun 21, 2015
Initially envisioned as a small labor camp for dissenters, Auschwitz was a low priority for the Nazi elite. When Hitler invaded Russia, an influx of Russian Jews, Communists, and POWs forced the Nazis to develop new ways to deal with undesirables.
Expansion
Jun 29, 2015
Auschwitz was over-capacity and more people were arriving daily. In order to maintain efficiency, Commandant Rudolf Höss ordered expansions to the camp. Plans for the Final Solution to "the Jewish Problem" are made.
Deportation
Jul 6, 2015
Auschwitz was over-capacity and more people were arriving every day. In order to maintain efficiency, Rudolf Höss ordered expansions to the camp. Plans for the Final Solution to "the Jewish Problem" are made as the horrors at Auschwitz continue.
Exploitation
Jul 13, 2015
Initially envisioned as a small labor camp for dissenters, Auschwitz was a low priority for the Nazi elite. When Hitler invaded Russia, an influx of Jews, Communists, & POWs forced the Nazis to develop new ways to deal with their undesirables.
Devastation
Jul 20, 2015
In 1944 an end to the war was in sight. The remaining Jews in Nazi occupied territories were sent to die in the camps. The Allied powers finally learn about Auschwitz-Birkenau, but make the controversial decision not to bomb the nearby rail lines.
Aftermath
Jul 27, 2015
As the Allies swept through the occupied territories, they discovered the horrors that the Nazis left behind. Even after the Soviets liberated Auschwitz-Birkenau, survivors continued to suffer. With no homes to return to, many left Europe.
