Dachau Concentration Camp History

Dachau Concentration Camp Timeline

March 20, 1933: The camp is opened by Heinrich Himmler, the head of the SS. The first prisoners are political opponents of the Nazi Party, including communists, socialists, and trade unionists.

May 1933: The camp is exempted from judicial authority, meaning that the SS has complete control over the prisoners.

October 1933: Theodor Eicke is appointed commandant of the camp. He introduces a system of harsh discipline and terror, and the camp becomes known for its brutality.

1938: The camp is expanded to accommodate more prisoners. The number of prisoners increases from 2,800 in 1933 to 18,000 in 1938.

1939: The Nazis begin to expand the concentration camp system to other parts of Europe. Dachau becomes a training camp for SS guards, and many of the guards who served at Dachau later served at other camps, including Auschwitz.

1941: The Nazis begin to systematically murder Jews and other groups they considered "undesirable." Dachau is not a death camp, but some prisoners are killed there, including those who are executed for refusing to work or for trying to escape.

1945: The camp is liberated by American troops on April 29, 1945. The remaining prisoners are freed.

1965: The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is established. The site is now a museum and memorial to the victims of the camp.

History of Dachau Concentration Camp Explained

Establishment of the Dachau Concentration Camp

March 20, 1933

The Dachau Concentration Camp was established by Heinrich Himmler, the head of the SS, on March 20, 1933, just weeks after Adolf Hitler came to power. The camp was originally intended to house political prisoners, but it was soon expanded to include other groups, such as Jews, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Romani. The establishment of Dachau was a major turning point in Nazi Germany's history. It marked the beginning of the systematic persecution of political opponents, religious minorities, and other groups that the Nazis considered "undesirable."

The Dachau Concentration Camp as a Training Camp for SS Guards

1934-1945

Dachau was used as a training camp for SS guards from 1934 to 1945. This meant that many of the guards who served at Dachau later served at other concentration camps, such as Auschwitz. The use of Dachau as a training camp helped to spread the culture of brutality and violence that characterized the Nazi concentration camp system.

The Dachau Concentration Camp as a Death Camp

1941-1945

Dachau was not a death camp in the same way that Auschwitz was. However, prisoners were killed at Dachau, including those who were executed for refusing to work or for trying to escape. Additionally, due to brutal outbreaks of disease, lack of hygiene conditions, and starvation, many more victims died during this period. During this period, prisoners were also subjugated to inhumane medical experiments at the Sickbay.

The Liberation of Dachau Concentration Camp

April 29, 1945

Dachau was liberated by American troops on April 29, 1945. The remaining prisoners were freed, but many of them were in poor health and had been subjected to horrific abuse. The liberation of Dachau was a major victory for the Allies and a turning point in the war. It also helped to expose the horrors of the Nazi concentration camp system to the world. Additionally, for a while, post its liberation, Dachau remained in use as a prison holding Nazi SS guards involved with crimes at Dachau and other areas.

The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

1965

The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site was established in 1965. The site is now a museum and memorial to the victims of the camp. The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is a powerful reminder of the Holocaust and the importance of fighting against all forms of intolerance and discrimination.

The International Monument

1990

The unveiling of the International Monument in 1990 marked a significant moment in Dachau's history. This powerful sculpture symbolizes the unity of nations against tyranny and honors the memory of the camp's victims.

Construction of Dachau Concentration Camp

Dachau Concentration Camp was built on an abandoned munitions factory during a tumultuous period in Nazi Germany.
The camp's design was led by Theodor Eicke, known for his brutality as the first commandant.
Dachau had a stark and functional architectural style, serving as a prototype for future concentration camps.
The layout emphasized control, featuring guard towers and barbed wire.
Barracks were made of wood and concrete, while barbed wire fences were made cheaply.
Dachau quickly gained notoriety as one of the most brutal Nazi concentration camps.
The camp's innovative use of space converted barracks into cramped living quarters.
The design allowed for strict surveillance, making escape nearly impossible.
Despite its complexity, the camp was constructed in just a few months, becoming operational by March 1933.

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Dachau Concentration Camp Today

Today, Dachau Concentration Camp stands not only as a historical landmark but also as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Its rich history, filled with both sorrow and hope, has transformed it into a place of international significance. As you walk its solemn grounds, you're not just stepping into the past; you're immersing yourself in a vital chapter of our shared history.

Dachau's presence adds depth to the history and culture of Germany, showcasing the nation's commitment to acknowledging its darkest moments and ensuring they are never repeated. To truly understand the lessons of history, a visit to Dachau is a must. It's a journey that imparts knowledge, inspires reflection, and underscores the importance of remembrance in our ever-evolving world.

Frequently Asked Questions About the History of Dachau Concentration Camp

How old is the Dachau Concentration Camp?

Dachau Concentration Camp was opened on March 20, 1933, making it 90 years old.

How many years did it take to build Dachau Concentration Camp?

The construction of the Dachau Concentration Camp was completed in a matter of months, and it was ready for use by March 1933.

Who designed Dachau Concentration Camp?

Dachau Concentration Camp was designed by a team of architects, with Theodor Eicke serving as the first commandant of the camp.

What is the historical significance of the Dachau Concentration Camp?

Dachau Concentration Camp holds immense historical significance as one of the first Nazi concentration camps, marking the beginning of systematic persecution in Nazi Germany. It played a pivotal role in the Holocaust and World War II history.

Where is Dachau Concentration Camp?

Dachau Concentration Camp is located in Dachau, northwest of Munich, Germany.

What is Dachau Concentration Camp famous for?

Dachau Concentration Camp is famous for its role as one of the first Nazi concentration camps and its chilling history during World War II.

What is the construction style of the Dachau Concentration Camp?

The construction style of Dachau Concentration Camp is stark and utilitarian, designed for maximum control with guard towers and barbed wire defining its landscape.

Are there guided tours explaining the Dachau Concentration Camp’s history?

Yes, guided tours are available at Dachau Concentration Camp, offering in-depth explanations of its history and significance. You can book your guided tour here.

What is the Dachau Concentration Camp used for today?

Dachau Concentration Camp is now a museum and memorial to the victims of the camp. It serves as a place for remembrance, education, and reflection.

Why is Dachau Concentration Camp important?

Dachau Concentration Camp is important because it stands as a symbol of the Holocaust, educating visitors about the atrocities committed during World War II and the importance of preventing such events from happening again.

Can I visit Dachau Concentration Camp?

Yes, you can explore the museum and various parts of the camp, including the former barracks and memorials.

When did Dachau Concentration Camp open to the public?

The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site was established in 1965, and it has been open to the public since then.