The Roots of Prejudice: Jewish Stereotypes from WWI to the Holocaust

Grade Level: 10–12

Objectives:

• Understand how anti-Semitic stereotypes were propagated before and during WWI and how these contributed to the rise of Nazi ideology.

• Analyze primary and secondary sources to recognize the historical roots and impacts of stereotypes.

• Reflect on the consequences of prejudice and the importance of critical thinking in addressing misinformation.

Materials Needed:

• Excerpts from historical propaganda materials (WWI anti-Semitic propaganda, Nazi propaganda posters, etc.).

• Excerpts from personal testimonies or diaries of Jewish individuals from the early 20th century.

• Video clips or documentary excerpts providing historical context.

• Worksheets with guided questions for analysis.

Lesson Outline

Introduction (15 minutes)

1. Discuss the Importance of Studying Prejudice and Stereotypes:

• Explain how prejudice and stereotypes have affected societies throughout history and why it’s important to understand and counteract them.

• Provide a brief overview of Jewish stereotypes used in Europe before WWI, connecting this history to how such views enabled the persecution of Jewish people during the Holocaust.