German repressions in the Częstochowa area during the Second World War

Abstract

During the Second World War, civilians in the occupied Częstochowa region were subjected to various forms of repressions. These included arrests, deportations for forced labor and to concentration camps, executions, and the most brutal measure of all – pacifications of villages. Rural areas were also subjected to German policy of economic exploitation. Similar conditions prevailed in the remaining lands of occupied Poland. The system of governance introduced by the Germans, perforce criminal, was aimed at achieving the total subjugation of Poles. No manifestations of national life were tolerated, while all aspects of civic activity came under the strictest scrutiny and control. Those who supported pro-independence organizations and involved themselves in the provision of assistance to Jews were a particular target of repression. German pacification campaigns resulted in the deaths of Poles of both sexes and all ages. This committal of numerous crimes of appalling brutality, including genocide, constituted a clear and flagrant violation of the provisions of international treaties.