Key Takeaways:

• On the night of November 9–10, 1938, Nazis attacked Jewish homes, shops, and synagogues.
• This violent event became known as Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass.
• Nazis broke windows, looted stores, and set buildings on fire.
• Around 30,000 Jewish men were arrested and sent to camps.
• Kristallnacht marked a severe step toward the Holocaust.

On a cold November evening, violent mobs roamed German and Austrian streets. They smashed windows, looted shops, and burned holy places. This brutal wave of terror is called Kristallnacht. During this night, the world saw how hateful ideas turned into deadly actions.

What was Kristallnacht?

Kristallnacht was a planned attack against Jewish people. Nazi leaders ordered stormtroopers to target Jewish property. As a result, they destroyed nearly 1,400 synagogues. They also wrecked over 7,000 Jewish shops and thousands of homes. Glass from windows littered the streets, giving the event its name. The name “Night of Broken Glass” captured the horror of that night.

Why did Kristallnacht happen?

Hitler’s regime spread hateful lies about Jewish people for years. They blamed Jews for Germany’s problems. Then, a young Jewish man shot a German diplomat in Paris. Nazis used that act as an excuse to strike back. In truth, leaders had long planned to intensify Jewish persecution. Kristallnacht served as a fierce warning. It showed that no Jewish person or place was safe.

How did the events unfold?

First, Nazi officials spread false accusations through newspapers and radio. Then, uniformed attackers marched through towns and cities. They smashed windows of Jewish shops and synagogues. They looted goods and set buildings ablaze. Firefighters often stood by without stopping the flames. Meanwhile, police arrested Jewish men by the thousands. Around 30,000 men went to concentration camps over two days. Women and children suffered too, losing homes and stability.

What was the impact of Kristallnacht?

Kristallnacht changed life for Jewish people in Europe forever. Many families lost businesses and homes overnight. They feared for their safety and futures. Some sought to leave Germany, but strict immigration rules blocked their escape. International leaders condemned the violence, but offered little help. After Kristallnacht, Nazi laws grew harsher. Jewish people faced forced labor, property seizures, and more arrests. Most historians see this night as the start of the Holocaust’s worst phase.

Remembering Kristallnacht today

Today, we remember Kristallnacht to honor its victims. We study this night to learn how hatred can grow. Schools and museums teach new generations about the dangers of prejudice. Memorials stand near former synagogues and town squares. Each year, communities hold ceremonies with candles and prayers. They promise “Never again.” By keeping these memories alive, we work to prevent similar horrors in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Kristallnacht mean?

Kristallnacht translates to “Night of Broken Glass.” It refers to shattered windows caused by the attacks.

Who carried out Kristallnacht?

Stormtroopers and Nazi supporters organized and executed the violence under orders from Nazi leadership.

How many synagogues were destroyed?

Nearly 1,400 synagogues went up in flames or suffered severe damage during Kristallnacht.

Why is Kristallnacht seen as a turning point?

It marked a shift from discrimination to open violence, signaling the start of mass persecution that led to the Holocaust.

Source: https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/11/09/today-in-history-november-9-holocaust-begins-with-looting-of-jewish-stores-homes/