Micro History: The Rescue Of Denmark's Jews (1943)

When resistance forces in Nazi-occupied Denmark learned about Germany’s plan to deport Danish Jews, the entire country leapt into action. A nationwide effort began to smuggle Denmark's Jews by boat to Sweden.

The Danes said “no” to antisemitism. While some were able to leave independently, most of Denmark’s 8,000 Jews were housed secretly in homes, hospitals, and churches by those who refused to let evil occur in their midst. Within two weeks, fisherman ferried over 7,000 Jews to shelter in Sweden.

Those who helped rescue the Jews in Denmark did so knowing the risk involved. One of the leaders of the effort, Erling Kiaer, was betrayed and arrested because of his involvement. But because of the country’s commitment to doing what is right, about 7,500 of Denmark’s Jews were saved.

Tragically, about 500 were deported to a ghetto in Czechoslovakia. Yet only 51 perished because of the pressure that Danish officials put on the Germans.

Proverbs 14:34 says, “Righteousness exalts a nation,” and the memory of the righteous generation of Denmark will be blessed forever because of their courage and moral clarity.

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