Introduction
The impact of World War II was not confined to the combat zones but extended across the globe, touching the lives of millions of civilians. This article delves into the experiences of German civilians living in Britain during and after the war, focusing on their treatment and stories of resilience and survival. Through personal anecdotes and historical accounts, it reveals a complex mixture of gratitude, suspicion, and eventual integration.
Treatment of German Civilians During WWII
The experience of German civilians living in Britain during World War II was marked by a dichotomy of both hardships and kindness. Initially, German prisoners of war (POWs) were housed and employed by various English households. The treatment provided by the British civilians was generally humane, with many German POWs being regarded as individuals rather than symbols of their country’s military might.
The Case of Eugen
Owing a special mention is Eugen, a German POW I met as a child. He, and his son, both named Eugen, were treated with kindness and respect by my parents. One of the most poignant stories I recall is when Eugen demonstrated his craftsmanship by showing me a Meccano model he was constructing. My enthusiasm to tighten a screw with a screwdriver quickly turned to awe as he instructed me on proper techniques, emphasizing safety and precision. This interaction exemplifies the grassroots kindness many German civilians received during the war, transcending national and ideological boundaries.
Interests and Integration
Beyond their basic treatment, German civilians were often engaged in various activities that furthered their integration into British society. For instance, Bert Trautman, a German POW, was not only given the freedom to pursue his talents as a goalkeeper for Manchester City football team but was eventually allowed to join the first team. This treatment was emblematic of the British public’s willingness to look past their shared enemy, focusing on individual merits and human qualities.
Treatment of German Jews During WWII
A more complex chapter of German civilians living in Britain during WWII involves the treatment of German Jews. Due to the rising tide of anti-Semitism and the Nazi persecution, many German Jews sought refuge in the UK through avenues such as the Kindertransport program. These young children were taken in by English families and given a new chance at life. However, not all German Jews were so fortunate. Many faced suspicion and were classified as enemy aliens or were interned due to military age.
Personal Accounts
The story of my mother-in-law is a prime illustration of resilience and the myriad challenges faced by German Jews during this period. As a young girl of 14 or 15, she was part of the Kindertransport and placed in a boarding school. She later joined the British Army as a nurse, despite her prima facie qualifications. Her background as a German Jew led to the denial of her request to become an officer, despite her exceptional skills and capabilities. This decision was a stark reminder of the lingering stigma and discriminatory practices even after the horrors of the war had ended.
Post-War Treatment and Reunification
Following the cessation of hostilities, the treatment of German civilians and displaced persons varied. Those who had not been granted British citizenship were initially treated as enemy aliens, necessitating a dual path for integration—one involving possible military service or internment. However, many found a new sense of belonging, particularly through their integration into British culture and institutions, such as football teams and the armed forces.
Example: My late mother-in-law and her family
My late mother-in-law survived the war and managed to rejoin her parents in the United States in 1946, thanks to a visa obtained in 1942. Her experiences were far more tumultuous. She eventually joined her grandmother, who was one of the oldest concentration camp survivors, in the United States, where they both lived into their nineties. The story of their post-war life, however, is one of restoration and reunion, highlighting the complex emotions and prolonged journey of those who survived the war.
Conclusion
From the initial bonds formed during the war with German POWs to the broader issues surrounding German Jews and their integration into British society, the experiences of German civilians in Britain during and after World War II reveal a spectrum of treatment and resilience. These stories, while often overshadowed by the global scale of the war, offer insights into the individual stories that shaped the broader narrative of the conflict and its aftermath.