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Japan invades Manchuria, beginning hostilities in the Far East.
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The first permanent concentration camp, Dachau, is established.
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Adolf Hitler is appointed Chancellor of Germany and the Nazi party takes control of Germany's government.
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Nuremberg Race Laws against Jews are decreed, depriving Jews of German citizenship.
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By 1936, Vladek and Anja are engaged, and they marry on February 14, 1937.
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Japan invades China proper, initiating the Pacific War that would become a part of World War II.
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October 1937, Vladek’s textile factory is up and running, and Richieu is born.
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Anja has a case of severe postpartum depression.
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Kristallnacht (night of crystal, also known as the night of broken glass): a government-organized pogrom against Jews in Germany, Austria, and the Sudeten region of Czechoslovakia results in widespread destruction of synagogues, businesses, and homes and the loss of at least 91 lives in November.
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In April, Britain and France guarantee the integrity of Poland's borders after Hitler violates Munich Agreement of 1938 by invading and dismembering Czechoslovakia
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In August, 1939, Vladek is called into active duty in the Polish army.
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In September, Germany invades Poland, starting World War II in Europe. In response, Great Britain, France, and the British Dominions declare war on Germany.
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He is first taken to a POW camp, then to a labor camp. Finally, several months later, he is released.
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In November, the first ghetto is established in Piotrków, Poland. Jews in parts of occupied Poland are forced to wear armbands bearing the Star of David for identification.
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In spring, Germans conquer Denmark, Norway, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands; Winston Churchill becomes British Prime Minister
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In May, Auschwitz concentration camp is established near the Polish city Oswiecim.
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Italy declares war on Britain and France in June.
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Elie Wiesel goes to Auchwitz.
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Elie's father dies after Achwitz was evacuated.
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Elie was liberated from the camps.
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Elie Wiesel was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.