Language:
German
Year of publication:
2005
Titel der Quelle:
Vierteljahrshefte für Zeitgeschichte
Angaben zur Quelle:
53,2 (2005) 241-273
Keywords:
Abetz, Otto Friedrich,
;
Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945)
;
France History German occupation, 1940-1945
Abstract:
Several of the most radical Nazi anti-Jewish measures in France were initiatives of the German ambassador, Otto Abetz. He had met with Hitler in August 1940 and was enthusiastic about the Führer's plan to rid Europe of Jews. In furthering this plan he saw an opportunity for furthering his own career, and he began preparing for the segregation and deportation of the Jews of France long before the military government had even considered it. He endeavored to have the French government implement these measures: the racial laws, the registration of the Jews, the arrests and deportations. Abetz was also behind the imposition of the yellow star in the occupied zone; but for this he did not get Vichy's cooperation. The deportations were presented as an alternative to the execution of thousands of hostages in retaliation for French terrorist attacks, which German propaganda attributed to Jews in the service of the Allies. Eichmann's representative in France, Dannecker, was very active in carrying out Abetz's initiatives; the military government had no choice but to cooperate. Abetz was relieved of his post in August 1942, and though he returned a year later, it was with reduced powers.
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