Examining approaches to the Holocaust in curriculum, policy and practice.

Abstract

Including the famous German Parliament address by Elie Wiesel in 2000, the collection of essays found in this book provides insights into the way the Holocaust is taught, the way it is included in the curriculum, and policy practices surrounding it in contemporary society. Thus, “As the witnesses fall silent: 21^st century Holocaust education in curriculum, policy and practice” provides readers with knowledge to approach this very important topic in education settings. The Holocaust, that occurred under the authority of the Nazi Regime, continues to be one of the most (if not the most) terrifying episodes in modern human history. Some 70 years after the liberation of Auschwitz, that enduring symbol of humankind’s inhumanity to itself, it still resonates with students, educators, historians, politicians, the public in general. Trials are still being held to prosecute alleged perpetrators of war crimes during the Nazi era. For example, the ‘bookkeeper’ of Auschwitz, now-94 year old Oskar Groening has recently been sentenced to four years’ jail for facilitating mass murder.