Learn about the historical background of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial. This section explores the origins of the camp, its role during World War II, the lives of its prisoners, and how it became a place of memory and reflection. Here you’ll find articles based on facts, testimonies, and archival research.
Forced Labour and Industry around Auschwitz: Monowitz and IG Farben
This article explains how forced labour shaped the Auschwitz complex, with a focus on Auschwitz III-Monowitz (Buna) and the nearby IG Farben works. For the overall site layout, see The Structure of the Auschwitz Complex, and for the origins of…
The Structure of the Auschwitz Complex: Auschwitz I, Birkenau, Monowitz
This guide explains the Auschwitz map and layout so readers can understand how the camp complex functioned. “Auschwitz” here refers to the entire complex – Auschwitz I, Auschwitz II-Birkenau and Auschwitz III-Monowitz – unless stated otherwise. For the historical background…
The Origins of Auschwitz: From Polish Barracks to Nazi Concentration Camp
A factual, respectful overview of Auschwitz-Birkenau’s history: origins, expansion, deportations, liquidation and memory. Key dates, context and sources …