Description
The Origins of the Auschwitz Camp in the Light of source Materials in an analysis of almost one hundred previously unpublished or little-known German documents connected with the origins of KL Auschwitz and the first phase of its operation. On the basis of these documents, the authors examine many aspects of the history of Auschwitz that have not been studied before, such as the decision to establish the camp, its planned size, and the chronology of its construction. The documents presented here with historical commentary confirm that almost from the very beginning Auschwitz was planned for 30,000 prisoners – larger than any of the concentration camps existing at the time. A careful analysis of the source material indicates that, in realizing this vast undertaking, the Germans repeatedly encountered technical and logistical problems resulting mainly from constantly changing orders and the lack of SS personnel with the qualifications to carry them out. Many of the documents discussed here attest tot he significant role played by the many German firms involved in building the camp complex.
