Do you really know? What was the Nazis' Madagascar Plan?
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Sep 24, 2025 The chilling Madagascar Plan reveals the Nazis' early attempts to remove Jews from Europe. Born from absurdity, the plan involved relocating them to the distant island. Find out how this 1940 concept gained traction and ultimately failed, paving the way for unspeakable horrors. In just under three minutes, discover the perplexing history behind this troubling chapter that highlights the dire consequences of inhumanity.
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Origins In Wider European Thinking
- The Madagascar idea didn't originate with the Nazis but emerged across Europe amid 1930s antisemitism.
- Poland and France had already proposed overseas resettlement, showing a pan-European search for solutions to the 'Jewish question'.
France's 1937 Proposal
- France proposed sending Jewish refugees to Madagascar in 1937 while it was a French colony, framed as humanitarian but ignoring Malagasy people.
- By 1938 Nazis discussed it and Himmler ordered a study in 1940, showing the idea moved from colonial policy to Nazi planning.
German Takeover Made The Plan Viable
- After France's armistice in June 1940, Germany controlled French colonies, enabling the Madagascar plan to gain traction.
- Officials like Franz Rademacher and SS officers formalised deportation plans, including yearly transfers and camp proposals funded by victims' assets.