Life in Hiding
When the arrests and roundups of the Jews began in Nazi-controlled Europe, the only means of escape was to hide. This was dangerous and often unsuccessful.
Jews in hiding were at constant risk of discovery, arrest and death. They stayed in cramped hiding spaces, like attics, haystacks or holes dug below ground. Others adopted false identities in attempt to blend in as Christians. In rural regions, such as in Eastern Europe, some Jews fled to forests and survived as part of resistance groups.
Occasionally, families managed to hide together, but this was risky. In most cases, families had to split up and hide separately. Parents were faced with the difficult decision of entrusting their children to non-Jews. In most cases, these strangers were paid to hide a Jewish child in their home. In some instances, however, helpers hid Jews out of a sense of kindness or moral obligation.
Jews in hiding had to change their locations frequently to avoid being discovered. It was dangerous for family members to remain in touch with each other while hiding. The emotional distress of separation from family was immense. As well, the threat of being caught or reported by neighbours was ever-present. Boredom, abuse and hunger were also common challenges experienced by Jews in hiding.
