Classroom Activity: Destruction and Rebirth at Bergen Belsen

Destruction and Rebirth at Bergen Belsen

This classroom activity explores the transformation of Bergen Belsen from a concentration camp to a Displaced Persons' camp. It focuses particularly on how Holocaust survivors grappled with loneliness and despair by getting married and starting families shortly after liberation. Through the lens of Bergen Belsen, we gain an understanding about how Holocaust survivors displayed courage and determination in generating life after the Holocaust.
The classroom activity is geared for high school students (Grades 9 - 12).

• Part I: Bergen Belsen Concentration Camp page 2.
• Part II: The Liberation of Bergen Belsen page 3.
• Part III: From Concentration Camp to Displaced Persons' Camp page 4.
• Part IV: Life in the Bergen Belsen DP Camp page 5.
• Part V: Marriage at Bergen Belsen pages 6-7.
• Part VI: Childbirth at Bergen Belsen pages 8-9.
• Conclusion: Destruction and Rebirth page 10.

"A Closer Look"
In this window, you will find survivor biographies, additional resources (including historical background, photographs, poems, etc.) and suggestions for classroom discussions.

To access these, click on the links that appear in the left-hand window.

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