The narrative unfolds through extensive research and personal interviews, highlighting the life of Père Marie-Benoît and his crucial role in rescuing Jews during a tumultuous period. The author, Zuccotti, delves into archives and gathers firsthand accounts from family members, Jewish rescuers, and survivors, painting a vivid picture of bravery and compassion amidst adversity. This compelling tale showcases the impact of one individual's efforts in the face of historical challenges.
A careful historical account linked to personal narratives. Eighty-five percent of Italy's Jews survived World War II, yet over six thousand were lost in the Holocaust, and many others faced terror. Susan Zuccotti shares hundreds of stories that highlight the resourcefulness of the Jews, the bravery of their rescuers, and the indifference of others. She argues that the Holocaust in Italy began with the first acts of violence against individuals, such as when a "black-shirted thug" forced castor oil down a victim's throat. Zuccotti prompts readers to reflect on the behavior of Italians during the rise of fascism, questioning whether they did enough to resist or if they should have recognized the danger sooner. She challenges us to consider our own potential responses to persecution and the importance of being vigilant against the erosion of liberties, especially when the initial victims are marginalized groups. The narrative serves as a reminder of the horrors that can arise from a racist fringe, even within seemingly stable societies. Susan Zuccotti teaches modern European history at Columbia University and has authored works on the Holocaust and its impact. The introduction by Furio Colombo, a professor of Italian Studies at Columbia, is included in this edition.
Many recent accounts have highlighted the collaboration of French authorities with anti-Jewish German policies during World War II. However, approximately 76 percent of France's Jews survived, a higher rate than in most Western European countries. This raises the question of how such a phenomenon occurred, especially given that the Vichy government began implementing racial laws before the Germans mandated them. To explore why over 250,000 Jews remained alive, Susan Zuccotti investigates the responses of the French people to the Holocaust. Utilizing memoirs, government documents, and survivor interviews, she shares the experiences of both Jewish and non-Jewish individuals. These narratives reveal a spectrum of actions, from betrayal to courageous acts of protection. Notable figures include Pierre Laval, who authorized deportations, and Pastor Andre Trocme, who mobilized his community to save thousands. The book also delves into how Jews perceived their peril and their responses, showcasing individuals like Denise Caraco Siekierski, a Jewish student who led a Resistance network, and Marc Chagall, who ultimately fled to Spain. Zuccotti concludes that various factors contributed to survival, including France's geography and the passive support of ordinary citizens who chose silence over denunciation. This silence, she argues, played a crucial role in the survival of many Jews, suggesting that the French response to the Holocaust
