Lesson 5: The Holocaust and the World

What did the world know about the Holocaust, and how did global actors respond?

International response
Refugees
Neutrality
Allied powers
Information suppression
Humanitarian aid
Diplomatic constraints

D2.His.4.9-12
Analyze complex and interacting factors that influenced the perspectives of people during different historical eras.

D2.His.14.9-12
Analyze multiple and complex causes and effects of events in the past.

D2.His.15.9-12
Evaluate the relative influence of various causes of events and developments in the past.

Students analyze claims, weigh evidence, and evaluate explanations for historical decision-making, skills emphasized in SAT and PSAT historical reasoning passages.

This lesson examines what information about the Holocaust reached the outside world and how governments and institutions responded. Students analyze why responses were limited, delayed, or constrained, focusing on wartime priorities, political considerations, and institutional limits.
DOK: 3–4

Connections to how governments and international organizations respond to humanitarian crises during conflicts.

The world knew nothing about the Holocaust
Silence always reflected ignorance
Military action was simple or cost-free
Humanitarian responses were unrestricted during wartime

Guided source analysis with structured prompts
Timelines comparing information and response
Small-group discussion before whole-class synthesis
Sentence frames for evaluative writing

Written response evaluating one factor that limited international action

Group discussion synthesizing multiple explanations

Exit response explaining why response was constrained

Student reading and question worksheet

Maps and timelines of World War II

Excerpts from reports, speeches, or diplomatic correspondence

Teacher-facilitated discussion