"Why take a class on the Holocaust? Won't it just be depressing?" This is a common sentiment shared by many people. While it is true that the Holocaust was a tragic and horrifying event in human history, there are reasons why it is crucial to learn about it.

By studying the Holocaust, we can understand how it came to be and how it could have been prevented. We need to understand the factors that led to the rise of Hitler and the Nazi regime and the actions taken by ordinary people, governments, and other entities that contributed to the atrocities. By learning about the Holocaust, we can be better equipped to recognize and respond to similar patterns of hatred and discrimination in our world today.

Studying the Holocaust can also be empowering. It teaches us about the resilience and bravery of those who fought against it and survived. By learning about the experiences of Holocaust survivors, young and old, we can gain insight into the human spirit's ability to endure unimaginable suffering and still find hope and meaning in life.

Lastly, by studying the Holocaust, we can honor the memory of those who perished and ensure that their stories are not forgotten. We are responsible for bearing witness to what happened and ensuring that such atrocities never happen again.

Therefore, in this class, we will delve into the history of the Holocaust and examine its impact on young people, their families, and their entire communities. We will also explore the lessons we can learn from it and apply them to our lives today. While some of the topics we will cover may be difficult to confront, we will approach them with sensitivity and respect, always keeping in mind the importance of learning and remembering.

So you're prepared for our first class, a vocabulary list and leaders of World War II worksheet will be provided, which students should complete before the first week of class. These activities will help us to hit the ground running and facilitate a deeper understanding of the material we will cover.