Concentration Camps by Kenneth Arter

Goals

26artek — 2024-03-20 12:23:10 UTC

The early Nazi concentration camps had the primary goal of eliminating political opponents of the Nazi party. Concentration camps were used to provide labor during labor shortages. Concentration camps were also used for Allied soldiers who became prisoners of war.

Types of Camps

26artek — 2024-03-20 12:29:41 UTC

Concentration Camps: For the holding of citizens considered "enemies of the Reich."

Forced Labor Camps: Exploited the labor of prisoners for economic gain and to meet labor shortages.

Transit Camps: Served as temporary holding facilities for Jews awaiting deportation. This was often the last stop before being set to death camps.

Prisoner of War Camps: For Allied prisoners of war.

Killing Centers: Used for the murdering of primarily Jews.

The First Camp

26artek — 2024-03-20 12:34:17 UTC

The first Nazi concentration camp was Dachau, established in March 1933, near Munich. A gas chamber was built at Dachau soon after to exterminate those unwilling or too sick to work.

Structure

26artek — 2024-03-20 12:38:28 UTC

All concentration camps were structured very similarly. Each camp had staff that consisted of 5 sections.

Commandant's headquarters (for commandant and staff)
A protective detention office run by a security police officer. They maintainted prisoner records such as time of arrival, discharge, discipline, and death.
Commander of the Protective Detention Camp
Administration and Supply
SS Physician