In January 1933, Adolf Hitler is appointed head of the German government. In the following months, Hitler and the Nazi Party begin to gain control of Germany through an election and the passing of governmental decrees.

“However, the Nazis did make it to power in 1933. I remember viv­idly the elections and the Ja (Yes) vote for the Nazis. Nearly everyone on the street sported a glittering silver or brass swastika pin marked with a Ja on their jackets or garments. Since I was one of the very few who was not wearing the Ja pin of national unity and purpose, I stood out. I felt like a stranger in the country in which I was born…”

Joseph Schwarzberg