In the book Portuguese on Hitler's Black List, journalist Miriam Assor delves into the harrowing stories of Portuguese Jews who fell victim to Nazi totalitarianism. Her research explores their origins, lives, and tragic journeys. She recounts how they were arrested across occupied Europe—in France, Greece, the Netherlands, and beyond—and describes the brutal conditions of their deportation to concentration and extermination camps, where many met merciless deaths.
Assor also preserves the memories of the few Holocaust survivors, shared either through their own accounts or, more often, through the voices of their descendants. She highlights the hesitant and inadequate consular policies of Portugal’s Estado Novo regime, which could have done far more to protect its citizens abroad.
The book also sheds light on Portuguese diplomats who defied official orders to issue visas and save lives, contrasting their heroism with the actions of the Portuguese police, who sought to close borders and limit refugees' presence in the country.
Resulting from over a decade of meticulous research, Portuguese on Hitler's Black List uncovers a largely forgotten chapter of Portuguese history during the dark days of World War II, providing valuable insight into the resilience and tragedy of its people.
Title: Portuguese on Hitler's Black List
Author: Miriam Assor
Publisher: Casa das Letras
Release Date: June 2023
Language: Portuguese
Pages: 232
