Escape and Rescue

Once Jews couldn't legally leave Nazi-controlled territory, they faced increasing persecution and ultimately death. The debate continues as to what free countries couldn't or wouldn't do to help but for the Jewish population (and others similarly treated) survival became urgent and tenuous.

Various efforts at rescue and escape were attempted, with some success. There were agencies and individuals who tried to save lives, sometimes at great risk to themselves. In other cases, all that could be offered were relief packages.