The Holocaust - An Introduction (I): Nazi Germany: Ideology, The Jews and the World from Coursera

The Holocaust was an inconceivable historical event, which forever robbed Western culture of its innocence. As civilized human beings, we fail to understand how events of such horror could have taken place, and how an idea so inhumanly warped could have spread like wildfire through an entire continent, instigating the systematic annihilation of millions of Jews.

This free online course was produced jointly by Tel Aviv University and Yad Vashem – the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. The course tracks the history of the Holocaust and has two parts. "The Holocaust - An Introduction (I): Nazi Germany: Ideology, The Jews and the World" is the first of the two courses and covers the following themes in its three weeks:

Week 1: From Hatred to Core Ideology

We will try to delve into Nazi ideology and the special place of Jews and Judaism in it. We will also discuss how the National Socialist Party converted the German Democracy of the Weimar Republic into a totalitarian regime within a short period of time, and its meaning for Jews and non-Jewish citizens.

Week 2: The World and the Jews in World War II

We will try to examine the broader contexts of the Holocaust and to place it, as part of World War 2. In this meeting we will also refer to the vital Jewish world to be found under various Nazi occupations and influences.

Week 3: The Isolation Abyss - the Perspective of the Individual

We will try to reveal different aspects of Jewish life in the face of the badge of shame, ghettos and segregation, as well as the formation of individual, societies’ and leader’s reactions in the face of a consistent policy of dispossession and discrimination.

Once you’ve completed this course, you can continue your learning with The Holocaust - An Introduction (II): The Final Solution (https://www.coursera.org/learn/holocaust-introduction-2/home/welcome)

This online course is offered in an innovative, multi-level format, comprising:

* Comprehensive lectures by leading researchers from Tel Aviv University and Yad Vashem.

* A wealth of voices and viewpoints presented by guest lecturers.

* Numerous documents, photos, testimonies and works of art from the time of the Holocaust.

* Novel learning experience: Crowd sourcing – involving the learners themselves in the act of collecting and shaping information, via unique, exciting online assignments.

REQUIREMENTS:

This course is designed for anyone with an interest in the Holocaust, including students, teachers, academics and policy-makers.

What's inside

Syllabus

From Hatred to Core Ideology; From Democracy to a Totalitarian State; Nazi Germany and the Jews

We will try to delve into Nazi ideology and the special place of Jews and Judaism in it. We will ask ourselves what, if anything, it renewed regarding traditional hatred of Israel and modern anti-Semitism and analyze Nazi documents to see how it reflects in them. Also, in this lesson we will discuss how the National Socialist Party succeeded in converting the German Democracy of the Weimar Republic into a totalitarian regime within a short period of time, and the significance of this process for its citizens - Jews and non-Jews alike.

The World and the Jews in World War II

We will try to examine the broader contexts of the Holocaust and to position it as a part of a various global conflicts that took place during world war 2. In this context, we will focus in a number of unique realities that were formed and created in Occupied Poland and France using them to identify key practices of Nazi Germany, European companies and the Jews who lived among them. We’ll look at the different fates of Jews in various European countries before and during World War 2, through the lens of the enormous changes which the Jewish world underwent in modern times: emancipation, secularization, urbanization and emigration.

The Abyss of Isolation - the perspective of the individual

Instead of policy, state and society at large, we’ll focus on the individual, the family and the Jewish communities across Europe, using a broad range of wartime accounts: official documents, diaries, letters, artwork and more. In this context, we will try to reveal different aspects of Jewish life in the face of shame, ghettos and segregation, as well as the formation of individual, societies and leaders reactions in the face of consistent policy of dispossession and discrimination. A variety of sources will help us create a complex puzzle consists of Jewish life in those dark days. In this context, we will try to reveal different aspects of Jewish life in the face of shame, ghettos and segregation, as well as the formation of individual, societies and leaders reactions in the face of consistent policy of dispossession and discrimination. A variety of sources will help us create a complex puzzle consists of Jewish life in those dark days.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces the history of the Holocaust, the ideology behind it, and its consequences on individuals and communities

Provides a wealth of resources, including lectures, documents, photos, testimonies, and artwork, for a comprehensive learning experience

Offers a novel learning approach through crowd sourcing, engaging learners in collecting and sharing information

Taught by leading researchers from Tel Aviv University and Yad Vashem, recognized for their expertise in the Holocaust

Requires learners to have a basic understanding of the Holocaust, as it delves into its complexities and nuanced perspectives

Involves examining Nazi documents and testimonies, which may be emotionally challenging for some learners

Reviews summary

Holocaust: nazi ideology and the jews

Learners say this course provides a largely positive and in-depth overview of the Holocaust, particularly the role of Nazi ideology and the treatment of Jews during this time. Students remark that the course is well taught, well structured, and features engaging lectures. However, one learner notes the course's lack of acknowledgment of Romani people who were also targeted during the Holocaust.

Many learners praise the expertise and passion of the course instructors.

"I really loved this course. Professor Dreifuss was excellent, her passion and knowledge of the subject was really showed in every lesson."

"A fantastic course, presented by authoritative and passionate instructors."

Learners appreciate the course's historically accurate and comprehensive content.

"The course is very well structured and the course material is historically precise, a wonderful approach and perspective to a serious study of the Holocaust."

"This is an informative, well prepared course. I appreciated the additional resource materials outside the lectures to clarify and provide more insight to the Holocaust."

One learner criticizes the course for neglecting the Holocaust's impact on Romani people.

"As a Romani activist scholar currently working at Cornell University, I appalled that this course blatantly erases us Romani from Holocaust Studies. It is violent and racist to ignore the second category of peoples targeted under the final solution."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Holocaust - An Introduction (I): Nazi Germany: Ideology, The Jews and the World with these activities:

Attend a Lecture or Webinar on the Holocaust

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Expand your knowledge and perspectives on the Holocaust by attending lectures or webinars led by scholars, historians, or survivors.

Browse courses on Holocaust Education

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Research upcoming lectures or webinars on the Holocaust.
Register for the event and make arrangements to attend.
Actively participate in the lecture or webinar, asking questions and engaging in discussions.

Explore the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Center Online Exhibitions

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Immerse yourself in the Holocaust's history through interactive online exhibitions, gaining a deeper understanding of its impact and lessons.

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Visit the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Center website.
Explore the various online exhibitions available.
Follow the guided tours or engage with interactive elements.
Reflect on the experiences and insights gained.

Volunteer at a Holocaust Museum or Memorial

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Engage in a meaningful hands-on experience by volunteering at a Holocaust museum or memorial, contributing to the preservation of history and honoring the victims.

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Identify local Holocaust museums or memorials that offer volunteer opportunities.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteering.
Participate in activities such as giving tours, assisting with events, or supporting educational programs.

Five other activities

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Review 'The Holocaust: A History' by Laurence Rees

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Summarize the key events and themes of the Holocaust to strengthen your understanding of the historical context.

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key points.
Identify the main causes and consequences of the Holocaust.
Analyze the role of different individuals and groups in the Holocaust.

Review 'Ordinary Men: Reserve Police Battalion 101 and the Final Solution in Poland' by Christopher Browning

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Gain insights into the psychology of perpetrators by examining the experiences of an ordinary police battalion involved in the Holocaust.

View Ordinary Men: Reserve Police Battalion 101 and... on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key points.
Analyze the motivations and behaviors of the battalion members.
Consider the broader implications for understanding the Holocaust and human behavior.

Create a Timeline of the Holocaust

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Reinforce your understanding of the Holocaust's progression by visually representing key events and their chronological order.

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Research the major events of the Holocaust.
Organize the events into a chronological order.
Create a visually appealing timeline using a tool or software.

Analyze Primary Source Documents Related to the Holocaust

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Sharpen your critical thinking skills by examining historical documents and extracting meaningful insights into the Holocaust.

Browse courses on Primary Sources

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Gather a collection of primary source documents related to the Holocaust.
Read and analyze the documents, identifying key themes, perspectives, and biases.
Write a summary or analysis of your findings.

Write a Personal Reflection on the Holocaust

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Contemplate the profound impact of the Holocaust by expressing your thoughts and emotions through a written personal reflection.

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Gather your thoughts and emotions about the Holocaust.
Write a reflective essay that explores your personal response.
Consider the lessons learned and the implications for the future.

Career center

Learners who complete The Holocaust - An Introduction (I): Nazi Germany: Ideology, The Jews and the World will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Archivist

Archivists manage, curate, and preserve documents and artifacts of historical significance. They may specialize in a particular subject matter, such as the Holocaust. This course provides a deep understanding of the Holocaust and its context, which could be valuable for an Archivist specializing in Holocaust studies. The course covers the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for an Archivist responsible for preserving and interpreting Holocaust-related documents and artifacts.

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Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. They may specialize in a particular subject matter, such as history or political science. This course would be highly beneficial for a Professor specializing in Holocaust studies. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for a Professor responsible for teaching and conducting research on the Holocaust.

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Researcher

Researchers design and conduct studies to gather and analyze data. They may specialize in a particular field, such as history or social sciences. This course would be highly beneficial for a Researcher specializing in Holocaust studies. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for a Researcher conducting studies on the Holocaust.

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Historian

Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. They may specialize in a particular era or region, such as the Holocaust. This course would be highly beneficial for a Historian specializing in the Holocaust. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for a Historian conducting research or writing about the Holocaust.

See salaries and explore the career path for Historian

Educator

Educators teach students at all levels, from elementary school to university. They may specialize in a particular subject matter, such as history or social studies. This course would be highly relevant for an Educator specializing in teaching about the Holocaust. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for an Educator responsible for teaching about this important historical event.

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Curator

Curators research, acquire, preserve, and display works of art and other objects in museums, galleries, and other institutions. They may specialize in a particular area, such as the Holocaust. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be invaluable for a Curator specializing in Holocaust studies. The course would provide them with the context and understanding necessary to interpret and present Holocaust-related artifacts and exhibitions.

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Journalist

Journalists research, write, and report on news and current events. They may specialize in a particular area, such as history or politics. This course would be beneficial for a Journalist specializing in reporting on the Holocaust or related topics. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for a Journalist responsible for accurately and sensitively reporting on this important historical event.

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Museum Educator

Museum Educators develop and deliver educational programs for museum visitors. They may specialize in a particular subject matter, such as the Holocaust. This course would be highly beneficial for a Museum Educator specializing in Holocaust education. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for a Museum Educator responsible for developing and delivering educational programs on the Holocaust.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum Educator

Teacher

Teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects. They may specialize in a particular grade level or subject matter, such as history or social studies. This course would be highly relevant for a Teacher specializing in history or social studies. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for a Teacher responsible for teaching about this important historical event.

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Sociologist

Sociologists study human society and behavior. They may specialize in a particular area, such as social inequality or social movements. This course may be beneficial for a Sociologist specializing in social inequality or social movements. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be valuable for a Sociologist studying social inequality or social movements related to the Holocaust.

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Social Worker

Social Workers help people cope with personal and social challenges. They may specialize in a particular area, such as trauma or grief counseling. This course may be beneficial for a Social Worker specializing in trauma or grief counseling. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be valuable for a Social Worker helping clients who have experienced trauma or grief related to the Holocaust.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research, analyze, and make recommendations on public policy issues. They may specialize in a particular area, such as human rights or international relations. This course may be beneficial for a Policy Analyst specializing in human rights or international relations. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be valuable for a Policy Analyst working on issues related to human rights or international relations.

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Writer

Writers create written content for a variety of purposes, such as journalism, fiction, and non-fiction. They may specialize in a particular genre or subject matter, such as history or human rights. This course may be beneficial for a Writer specializing in history or human rights. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be valuable for a Writer working on projects related to the Holocaust or other human rights issues.

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Lawyer

Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. They may specialize in a particular area of law, such as international law or human rights law. This course may be beneficial for a Lawyer specializing in international law or human rights law. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be valuable for a Lawyer working on cases related to the Holocaust or other human rights violations.

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Librarian

Librarians help people find and access information. They may specialize in a particular subject matter, such as history or social sciences. This course would be beneficial for a Librarian specializing in Holocaust studies. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the Holocaust, including its origins, the Nazi ideology, the treatment of Jews during World War II, and the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust. This knowledge would be essential for a Librarian responsible for selecting, organizing, and providing access to Holocaust-related materials.

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