The Dutch in World War 2
The Second World War plays an important part in Dutch ancestry research. Historically, it has been one of the catalysts for immigration from the Netherlands to many different parts of the world, like the USA, Canada or Israel. Below, you can read more about the Dutch in World War 2 and how ancestry research can help you learn more about your own Dutch ancestors during this time.
The Netherlands in WW2
During the Second World War, the Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany, resulting in the oppression and the murder of many Dutch Jewish families. Over 100.000 Dutch Jewish people were forcefully transported to concentration camps and killed by the Nazis. Additionally, people died of starvation during the so-called ‘hunger winter’ of 1944. Many Dutch people in World War 2 also went into hiding for years in order to avoid having to perform forced labour in Nazi Germany. The Netherlands was eventually liberated on May 5th, 1945, with the help of Canadian and American forces.
Dutch in Canada, USA and Israel
Before, during and after the war, many people fled from the Netherlands. In the years leading up to the war, there was an influx of Dutch immigrants in America and Canada, with Dutch families escaping from impending war in Europe. If you have a Dutch Jewish surname, there is a good chance your ancestors managed to escape before or during the war. After the liberation of the Netherlands, many Dutch Jewish people also opted for immigration to Israel. Other destinations for Dutch immigrants were Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
Find your ancestors in the Netherlands
Did your Dutch ancestors experience the war, and are you looking to learn more about their life in the Netherlands during WW2? Dutch ancestry research can be difficult when you don’t speak the language. Whether your ancestors emigrated after the war or long before, a genealogist from Dutch Family Roots can help you find your ancestors in the Netherlands and discover more about your family history. Read about our Digital Screening or discover our specialized services.
Dutch Archival research
Aside from our standard services, we offer on-site Dutch archival research, as well as help writing a book, large-scale research projects, photographic research and research of unknown heirs. If you’re interested in finding out more about your Dutch ancestry through Dutch Family Roots, please send us a message.