Auschwitz survivor visits Nuremberg Trial – A moving day!

Auschwitz survivor visits Nuremberg Trial – A moving day!

On November 9, 2025, a memorable chapter in contemporary history comes to life in the Nuremberg Palace of Justice when Auschwitz survivor Ernst Michel (22) enters the press gallery. A moment that speaks directly not only to him, but also to the judges and prosecutors present, because he is sitting less than ten meters away from Hermann Göring and the other defendants. This dramatic scene shows how close knowledge and trauma are in the processing of history. ARD media library reports that he faces this moment with a calm look.

Meanwhile, the Polish witness Seweryna Smaglewska (29) is being accommodated in the Grand Hotel in Nuremberg. Astonished by the lavish ball celebrated by the judicial representatives the night before, it becomes clear that the distance from the terrible reality of the negotiations could not be greater. Schmaleska, who acts as the voice of the survivors, contrasts the elitist occasion with the suffering of many people during the Holocaust. ARD media library captured the scene vividly.

The actors in the process

In the Nuremberg process the roles are clearly assigned. Ernst Michel is portrayed by Jonathan Berlin, while Seweryna Smaglewska is portrayed by Katharina Stark. Accusers like Hermann Göring, embodied by Francis Fulton-Smith, bring up the horrific legacy. The dramatic implementation, directed by Carsten Gutschmidt, brings the story to life, while Jens Südkamp creates the musical accompaniment, which further heightens the audience's emotions.

The prominent cast is one of the mainstays of this project, which treats the events with great sensitivity and seriousness. The participants are aware of the responsibility they bear and these representations are intended not only to entertain but also to stimulate thought.

A look into history

But what really happened in Auschwitz? The cruel realities of the camps are summarized in a powerful report. Auschwitz 1, originally a soldiers' barracks, has a relatively "normal" appearance, but is surrounded by walls, barbed wire and towers. The dark truth is that there is, among other things, a gas chamber here. In contrast, Auschwitz Birkenau is the larger camp, known for its horrific conditions and sprawling structures. Answers.com highlights that the camp contains haunting memories of the suffering of the people.

The entrance to the camp is particularly impressive, leading through the main gate, which is flanked by numerous sheds. At the end of the camp you will find destroyed gas chambers that were used by the Nazis to cover up their crimes. These backgrounds provide a powerful emotional experience and illustrate the importance that such events have for today's society.

At a time when technology start-ups are booming and accelerator programs have emerged to provide a platform for young companies, it remains important to retain the lessons of the past. Programs like Y Combinator and Techstars not only offer financial resources, but also mentoring for the start-ups. The Banker explains these programs that help young companies position themselves on the market and bring their innovations to life.

November 9, 2025 is not just a date, but an important day for coming to terms with history. It shows the interconnectedness of past and present, memories and innovation, and offers us the opportunity to reflect on our responsibilities.