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Facts About Schindler’s Factory
A fascinating Schindler factory fact to know is that at the factory Jewish workers were famously referred to as the Schindlerjuden or Schindler’s Jews. These were granted larger food portions compared to others and this act of subtle resistance was part of Oskar Schindler's efforts to protect and sustain his Jewish workers. Despite these efforts the Scindlerjudens were still exposed to several life threatening circumstances. One of these was working the enamel furnaces and using ladles with sulphuric acid. This led to spread of diseases like typhus and dysentery.
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Schindler’s Factory was established in 1937 and it produced enamel kitchenware and metal items then. However, so as to preserve its significance in history, this factory was converted into a museum in 2010. The permanent exhibit known as the ‘Krakow - during the occupation 1939 to 1945’ showcases the conditions of the Polish and Jewish people in Krakow during Nazi occupation. Everyday objects such as newspapers, personal objects, documents and other artefacts have been used to depict the horrific conditions of these people then.
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An interesting Schindler's Factory Fact during World War II was that Oskar Schindler strategically shifted production in his enamelware factory to ammunition shells. He did this to ensure that the factory remained functional so that the Jews working in his factory could be saved from going to concentration camps. Schindler's Factory became a haven, showcasing his bravery and resourcefulness in defying the Nazi regime to save the lives of his Jewish employees.
In 1943 the Jews from Krakow were deported to Plaszow concentration camp. In 1945 Oskar Schindler, through arguments and bribes managed to get the licence to establish the factory as a subcamp. This move protected the Schindlerjuden from the horrors of concentration camps, as they were considered essential workers for the war effort. Within this subcamp, Oskar Schindler ensured better living conditions and increased rations, which helped improve their chances of survival during this period.
Schindler's Factory gained worldwide recognition for the first time through Thomas Keneally's 1982 book, "Schindler's Ark," . The book gave details about Oskar Schindler's heroic efforts to save his Jewish workers. This compelling narrative led to the production of the acclaimed 1993 film "Schindler's List," directed by Steven Spielberg. The film's poignant portrayal brought Schindler's story to a global audience. It highlighted his courageous actions during the Nazi occupation of Krakow in World War II. Both the book and the film have played major roles in preserving the legacy of Schindler's Factory and its historical significance.
The real Schindler's list is a document containing the names of approximately 1,200 Jewish workers whom Oskar Schindler saved from the Holocaust. Compiled in 1944, this list ensured these individuals were transferred to Schindler's factory in Brünnlitz, away from the deadly concentration camps. A copy of this list was discovered amongst Thomas Keneally’s archives in New South Wales in 2009. Schindler's unwavering dedication and strategic efforts to protect these lives are immortalised through this list which symbolises hope and courage amidst the horrors of World War II.
Facts About Oskar Schindler
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One of the major Schindler Factory facts was that Oskar Schindler faced arrest multiple times during World War II. Primarily due to his black market activities and embezzlement. He used most of this money to buy food for his Jewish workers. This was the main reason the Schindlerjuden had more ration than the rest of the Jews in Krakow. Despite his connections and bribes to Nazi officials, his efforts to protect his Jewish workers often attracted suspicion. But since he had good connections he would be released every time he was arrested by the Gestapo.
After World War II, Oskar Schindler faced complete financial ruin and he declared bankruptcy. This was mainly due to his wartime expenditures to keep his Schindlerjuden alive. Despite his heroic efforts during the Holocaust, Schindler struggled to find post-war success, as his investments in various enterprises failed. His expenses to protect and sustain his Jewish workers depleted his resources, leading to a life of financial instability. In the end he was supported by donations from grateful survivors and Schindler lived modestly until his death in 1974.
Oskar Schindler is buried in Jerusalem on Mount Zion, an honour reflecting his profound impact on the Jewish community for his war efforts. Following his death in 1974, he was laid to rest on Mount Zion, becoming the only member of the Nazi Party to be recognized in this way. Furthermore, Oskar Schindler’s selfless efforts were honoured with a special service by Yad Vashem where a carob tree was placed in his honour on the Avenue of the Righteous.
Some interesting Schindler factory facts include Oskar Schindler frequently bribing the Nazi officials to protect his Jewish workers from deportation and death. He used most of his profits from the factory to buy food for his Jewish workers from the black market. When the war took an ugly turn Schindler realised that he had to make a sincere effort to save the Jewish people under his employment. He started his efforts to turn the factory into a sanctuary without any regards to costs.
FAQs for Schindler's Factory
When was Schindler’s Factory built?
Oskar Schindler's enamelware factory, Emalia, was built in 1937, in Kraków, Poland. It initially produced enamel kitchenware and metal items. During World War II, Schindler converted it to produce goods for the German military, ultimately using it as a haven to save over 1,200 Jews from the Holocaust. Today, it stands as a museum commemorating his courageous efforts.
Why is Schindler’s Factory important?
Stating Schindler's Factory facts it would be incomplete without mentioning its crucial role in saving over 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust. Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist, transformed his enamelware factory into a refuge for his Jewish workers during the Nazi occupation of Krakow. This act of bravery and compassion amidst Nazi atrocities stands today as a symbol of the power of individual resistance.
Who founded/created the Schindler’s Factory?
The Schindler's Factory, originally named Emalia, was founded by Oskar Schindler in 1937. The factory is located in Kraków, Poland, it initially produced enamel kitchenware and metal items. During World War II, Schindler transformed the factory to produce goods for the German military which helped him to provide sanctuary to save over 1,200 Jews from the Holocaust. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder of his extraordinary actions.
What is Schindler’s Factory used for today?
Today, Schindler's Factory in Kraków, Poland, serves as a museum dedicated to preserving the memory of Oskar Schindler's heroic efforts during the Holocaust. Visitors can explore several exhibits and displays that showcase the factory's history. The Museum depicts the lives of the Schindlerjuden, and the broader context of World War II. It stands as a sad yet triumphant reminder to the resilience of the human spirit amidst unimaginable adversity.
How big is Schindler’s Factory?
Schindler’s Factory Facts this factory in Krakow Poland is spread across approximately 4,000 square metres. Originally it was an enamelware factory and it gained worldwide recognition for its role in sheltering over 1,200 Jews from the Holocaust during World War II. Today it stands as a museum offering visitors insight into the factory's history and its significance in preserving the memory of Oskar Schindler's courageous actions.
Can I visit Schindler's Factory?
Yes, Schindler's Factory in Kraków, Poland, is open to visitors. The factory has been converted into a museum and it offers tours and exhibits detailing the history of the factory and its transformation into a sanctuary during the Holocaust. Visitors can explore the museum to learn about Oskar Schindler's heroic efforts and the lives of the Jews he saved.