Anne Frank's True Story, as told in her Diary

Anne Frank was a charming and clever 14-year-old Jewish girl who lived during a traumatic time in world history. She documented a very personal account of how the Nazi regime and the events of World War II effected her and her family in the now-published book, Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl.  Below is some information about this lovely girl and the place she and her family had to remain in hiding for over a year.

Anne Frank's Birthday Gifts

On June 12, 1942, Anne received many gifts from friends and family.  Before going into hiding, the family was obviously wealthy.  Watch the presentation below and imagine what changes her life must have gone through when her family had less material items.  Later in the diary, Anne talks about how the sheets haven't been washed in months and the tablecloth has never been changed and has holes throughout it.


Anti-Jewish Propaganda of the Nazis

A very effective part of the genocide of the Jewish people was the brainwashing of the German public through carefully crafted propaganda.  Watch the presentation below to learn more.


Anne Frank's Imaginary Escape Bag

Although Anne Frank died just a few months before the end of World War II, in March 1945, we can imagine what it would have been like for her to escape the Secret Annexe.  Below is one possibility of what she could have packed in an escape bag.

Joseph Sher, story of a Holocaust Survivor

Although it is estimated that six million Jews were killed by Nazis during the holocaust, the people who survived sometimes lived long and interesting lives. One example is the story of Joseph Sher.

The United Nations, created to prevent future events such as those that led to WWII

The events leading up to World War II were evidence that humans are capable of great moral crimes. After the war, the Allies banded together to form the League of Nations, to create an International Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations, in an effort to safeguard against the repetition of such travesties.

Questions for discussion

1. Do you know any stories of teenagers who must deal with very difficult situations, like Anne did?

2. What do you know about Judaism? Do you know any other religions which experience persecution?

3. Describe a situation in which you or someone you know experienced prejudice.

4. How can imagination and sense of humour help someone when they are in trouble?

5. "In spite of everything, people are really good at heart." Do you agree with this statement?

6. Imagine what it would be like to live in the Secret Annexe. What would you do all day?

7. Can you think of any other examples of where propaganda sways/swayed the general public into believing something?

8. Anne says in her diary that the forming of a person's character is up to that person. Do you agree with that statement? Why or why not?

9. Do you think the International Declaration of Human Rights can prevent another Holocaust from happening?