Persecution of Homosexuals

What was the Nazi persecution of homosexuals?

The Nazi persecution of homosexuals was an attack on gay men. Generally, lesbians were not considered a threat to the Nazi regime. The nature of the persecution escalated over time and became worse.

Why did the Nazi regime carry out the persecution of homosexuals?

The Nazis persecuted homosexuals because it was believed they were failing in their duty to reproduce and needed to sexually conform.

When did the Nazi persecution of homosexuals begin?

The Nazi persecution of homosexuals started in 1933 and continued to 1945.

How were homosexuals targetted by Nazi persecution?

There were 3 main attacks on homosexuals:

• ❖ Laws against homosexuality were passed in 1935. As a result the number of men imprisoned for homosexuality increased tenfold from approximately 800 in 1934 to 8,000 in 1938.
• ❖ Many homosexuals were sent to concentration camps. It is estimated that about 60%, or 5,000, of all homosexual prisoners died.
• ❖ Homosexuals were experimented on in the camps and were castrated.