Series: Experiences of Black People during the Holocaust and World War II

Learn about the experiences of Black people during the Holocaust and World War II:

  • The Nazi persecution of Black people in Germany from 1933 until the end of World War II
  • How Nazi ideology affected the lives of Black people in German-occupied Europe
  • The impact of racism on African American athletes who participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics
  • Black American soldiers' experiences as liberators and witnesses to Nazi atrocities

The Nazi Persecution of Black People in Germany

African American Soldiers during World War II

German propaganda leaflet for African American soldiers

Jazz musician Valaida Snow

The Nazi Olympics Berlin 1936: African American Voices and "Jim Crow" America

The Nazi Olympics Berlin 1936: African American Voices and "Jim Crow" America - Photos and Videos

What were some similarities between racism in Nazi Germany and in the United States, 1920s-1940s?

How did different goals and political systems shape racism in Nazi Germany and the United States?

Thank you for supporting our work

We would like to thank Crown Family Philanthropies and the Abe and Ida Cooper Foundation for supporting the ongoing work to create content and resources for the Holocaust Encyclopedia. View the list of all donors.