Experiences of Polish prisoners at the Buchenwald concentration camp

The crimes committed at the National Socialistic concentration camps play an important role in the commemorative cultures of practically every European country today. They are also a significant factor in cultural discourse and influence perspectives in contemporary politics. However, the origins of such formative experiences often remain unknown. The various reports and experiences of Polish prisoners during their incarceration at the Buchenwald concentration camp provide a wealth of material for such reflection. The Polish prisoners were the first foreigners to be detained at the camp in 1939. The racially motivated methods applied by the SS were radicalized against them. The first mass killing at Buchenwald was committed against Polish Jews and resistance fighters. One of the goals of the Buchenwald memorial site is to illuminate this chapter of history and make it tangible to younger generations. A Polish historian will be invited as a fellow to Weimar to develop exhibition modules which promote mutual awareness of the differences in how this history is presented in Western and Eastern Europe. Selective research in Polish archives and interviews with contemporary witnesses will be used to identify suitable areas of investigation and develop new methods for educational activities.