‘Jews to Madagascar’: Poland in the face of ethnical problems in the 1930s

The idea of deporting the Jewish population Europe was part a modern anti-Semitism. Poland no exception in this regard. Under influence other countries implementing anti-Jewish laws, also Polish anti-Semitism became more radical. After 1935, such postulates were openly expressed as policy government has changed its character – from state to national. Additionally, due global economic crisis began be taken far seriously not just national Catholic circles. resettlement Jews seen way reduce unemployment and ‘Polonise’ cities, masses poor peasants could replaced workers trade craftsmanship concerned. authors immigration plans for European suggested evacuating them most willingly uncivilised including Madagascar (a French colony) fact that their lands either used at all or only an insufficient inadequate extent. In Poland, first adopted 1926 solution problem overpopulation rural areas. However, conditions on island did allow settlement soon fell through. Yet it came back decade later proposal exclusively Jews. At time, project much 1937 commissioned task force examine possibility settling evaluate island’s potential, particular climate labour conditions. But reports commission members full contradictions showing growing caution matter.