The purpose of studying the Holocaust, arguably the most crucial event of the twentieth-century, is to provide students with a solid appreciation of the need for the respect and tolerance of others. In this class we will analyze: antisemitism throughout history; the chronological developments that led to the Holocaust; and numerous personal accounts of survivors and of those who died at the hands of the Nazis; other groups persecuted by the Nazis apart from Jews; and other genocides that have occurred in modern history.

The past influences the present and shapes the future. We will analyze fundamental concepts such as the development of religion, the rise and fall of empires, their governments, warfare and class struggle, and an awareness of culture/fine arts from the Middle Ages through to the present day. If you do not have an idea of what happened in the world before you were born, you can never truly live. In addition to the historical goal of this course, an equally important ambition is to develop sound academic skills. Essay writing, cooperative learning, study skills, speaking in front of others, and research skills are tasks that are required for success both in school and life. The skills that are taught in this course will be utilized throughout your entire academic career and in you future job(s).

H.B. Plant High School
Rhian Nevergold