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The Nanking Massacre and Other Japanese Military Atrocities, 1931-1945
Unit 2—Atrocity, Massacre, Genocide, Holocaust
BRIEF SUMMARY OF UNIT: Legal scholar Raphael Lemkin coined the term genocide to name
the Nazi destruction of European Jewry during WWII. The term has since been applied retrospectively to
the experience of the Armenians during WW I as well as to post Holocaust events in Cambodia, Rwanda
and Darfur. In each case, debate rages over labeling the event genocide. Despite the creation of a specifi c
defi nition by the UN in 1948, the controversy continues. Scholars, historians, politicians and ordinary citizens
argue over the proper use of this powerful term. But understanding the nature of genocide is necessary for
humanity to have any hope of recognizing the warning signs and taking preventive action.
LINK TO CONTENT STANDARDS:
See Appendix C for the common core standards for Writing, Reading, Language, and
Speaking and Listening in Social Studies.
6.1.12.A.11.e Assess the responses of the United States and other nations to the violation of
human rights that occurred during the Holocaust and other genocides.
6.1.12.D.11.a Analyze the roles of various alliances among nations and their leaders in the conduct
and outcomes of the World War II.
6.1.12.A.4.c Evaluate how political and military leadership affected the outcome of the Civil War.
6.2.12.A.5.d Analyze the causes and consequences of mass killings (e.g., Cambodia, Rwanda,
Bosnia-Herzegovina, Somalia, and Sudan), and evaluate the responsibilities of
the world community in response to such events.
6.2.12.B.5.e Assess the role of boundary disputes and limited natural resources as sources
of conflict.
6.2.12.D.4.i Compare and contrast the actions of individuals as perpetrators, bystanders, and
rescuers during events of persecution or genocide, and describe the long-term
consequences of genocide for all involved.
8.1.8.E.1 Gather and analyze fi ndings using data collection technology to produce a possible
solution for a content-related or real-world problem.
8.2.8.C.2 Compare and contrast current and past incidences of ethical and unethical use of
labor in the United States or another country and present results in a media
rich presentation.
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