The Museum’s American and the Holocaust Initiative focuses on Americans’ responses to the Holocaust in the 1930s and 40s. The film by Ken Burns, Lynn Novick, and Sarah Botstein, The U.S. and the Holocaust, was partly inspired by the Museum’s exhibition on this topic.
"These teaching resources promote reflection and critical thinking about various factors that shaped attitudes and actions during that time and the factors that influence us today."
Students are introduced to the many factors that influenced Americans’ will and ability to respond to the Jewish refugee crisis, including isolationism, racism, xenophobia, and antisemitism.
Other Teaching Materials from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Teaching about the Holocaust can inspire students to think critically about the past and their own roles and responsibilities today. Use the resources on this page to help develop your approach and to find lesson plans to use in your classroom.