Prologue to Annihilation

Main Themes and Topics

"Prologue to Annihilation" by Stephen H. Norwood delves into the critical examination of American and British responses to the rise of Nazism and the persecution of Jews during the early years of the Third Reich. A primary theme in the book is the appeasement approach adopted by these nations, which extended beyond mere territorial concessions to include a tacit acceptance of the Nazi regime's early antisemitic policies. Norwood critically highlights how these policies signaled the eventual path to the Final Solution and questions the broader societal complicity.

Another significant theme is the resistance from ordinary American and British Jews against Nazi persecution. Norwood sheds light on the grassroots movements that emerged, spearheaded by working-class Jews who actively participated in worldwide protests and boycotts of German goods, and the spontaneous uprisings in London's East End. The book examines the division within the Jewish community regarding how best to counteract these antisemitic policies.

Writing Style and Tone

Stephen Norwood's writing style in "Prologue to Annihilation" is both scholarly and accessible, providing an incisive narrative backed by meticulous research. The tone of the book is analytical and critical, offering a deep exploration of historical events and the decisions of that era. Norwood's narrative is compelling, effectively conveying the urgency and gravity of the subject matter without losing the reader in overly dense academic prose. His commitment to factual accuracy and detailed storytelling makes the book an enlightening read.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

"Prologue to Annihilation" chronicles the early years of Nazi Germany, focusing on the reaction of American and British societies to Hitler's rise and antisemitic policies. The book delves into the appeasement strategies employed by both countries, which went beyond land concessions to include a passive acceptance of the persecution of Jews. It also highlights the efforts of Jewish communities in these countries to resist and combat nascent Nazi ideologies, exploring their grassroots resistance movements that tried to awaken a broader societal awareness and action against the Nazi threat.

Through detailed accounts of protest and boycott movements, Norwood presents a vivid picture of how these initial years laid the groundwork for the tragic events that followed. The book underscores the complexities and challenges faced by Jews trying to combat an emerging nightmare, striving to resist through both organized efforts and spontaneous acts of defiance.