Oskar Schindler

Definition

Oskar Schindler was a German businessman and a member of the Nazi Party who is best known for saving the lives of over 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories. His actions, driven by moral conviction rather than profit, have made him an iconic figure in discussions about resistance against the atrocities of World War II and the Holocaust.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oskar Schindler started as a war profiteer but transformed into a protector of Jews as he witnessed the brutal treatment they faced.
2. He employed Jewish workers in his enamelware and ammunition factories, arguing that having them on his payroll was essential for his business operations.
3. Schindler famously kept a list of his Jewish workers, ensuring their safety from deportation to concentration camps.
4. His efforts saved many families, and he spent a significant portion of his wealth bribing Nazi officials to protect his workers.
5. After the war, Schindler faced financial difficulties but is remembered as a hero and was later honored by Yad Vashem for his courageous actions.

Review Questions

• How did Oskar Schindler's motivations evolve throughout his life, especially in relation to his role during the Holocaust?
  • Initially, Oskar Schindler was motivated by profit as he sought to benefit from wartime production. However, as he became aware of the horrific conditions faced by Jews, his motivations shifted toward a moral obligation to protect them. This transformation led him to employ over 1,200 Jews in his factories and take significant personal risks to ensure their safety from Nazi persecution. His journey from opportunism to humanitarianism illustrates the complexity of human behavior during times of crisis.
• Discuss the significance of 'Schindler's List' in understanding the impact of individual actions during the Holocaust.
  • 'Schindler's List' serves as a powerful reminder of how one person's actions can profoundly affect many lives. It highlights not only Schindler's determination to save his workers but also represents the broader theme of resistance against the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. The list itself became a symbol of hope and survival amidst despair, showing how individual courage could stand against systemic evil. The story has resonated through history, reminding us that even in dark times, acts of compassion can prevail.
• Evaluate the long-term legacy of Oskar Schindler's actions during the Holocaust and how they have influenced perceptions of morality in crisis situations.
  • Oskar Schindler's legacy has had a profound impact on our understanding of moral responsibility in crisis situations. His actions exemplify how individuals can make significant choices that defy prevailing norms, emphasizing that ethical decisions are possible even in dire circumstances. Schindler is celebrated as a 'Righteous Among the Nations,' inspiring future generations to reflect on their own moral responsibilities. His story raises essential questions about individual agency versus systemic oppression and encourages people to stand up against injustices whenever they occur.

Related terms

Schindler's List: A historical document and later a film depicting the individuals Schindler saved during the Holocaust, showcasing his efforts and the horrors faced by Jews at that time.

Holocaust:

The systematic extermination of six million Jews and millions of others by the Nazi regime during World War II, marking one of history's most tragic genocides.

Righteous Among the Nations:

A title given by Israel to non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust, recognizing their bravery and humanity.