Description
Defining the status of the Jews in France before 1940, emphasizes the distinct and inferior position of the "foreign Jews" who immigrated from Eastern Europe and Greece during the 1920s-30s. Describes the anti-Jewish persecutions after the Nazi occupation of Paris, as well as the increase of antisemitic attacks in pro-Nazi newspapers. In late 1941, official measures of discrimination were implemented by the Nazi and French authorities. Recounts the waves of raids and deportations of Jews and describes their condition in the French concentration camps (e.g. Gurs, Loiret). Discusses the effects of the anti-Jewish legislation in the "free zone, " and official antisemitic propaganda. Relates the events of the Vel' d'hiv' raid in Paris in July 1942. Describes the Drancy camp, and the main phases of deportation to Nazi camps. Refers to Jewish involvement in the Resistance, and presents various expressions of French solidarity with the persecuted or deported Jews. In conclusion, discusses the approaches of French historiography to the fate of the French Jews during the occupation.
