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The White Rose, Part 1

© Kelly Scheufler

A group of American students, led by their wildcat mascot, stormed into the office of the president of the University of Arizona last year. They demanded that their school agree to a code of conduct, one that guarantees the protection of the rights of workers throughout the world who manufacture college sports gear. When the president refused, they decided to stay. They initiated a sit-in, taking over the building for eight days until the president finally agreed. College students like these, exhibiting youthful idealism and drive, have been protesting social injustice for years.

In 1942, a group of German students also formed a protest movement, lighting a fire on their campus. The difference this time was the level of risk they took. These students lived under the rule of Hitler, a time when political indoctrination started at such an early age that family members denounced their own. The party had absolute control, with spies planted everywhere. These students could not stand by idly as the brutality of Hitler's regime became apparent. They called themselves The White Rose.

The White Rose started with the deep friendship of a group of students who shared strong convictions of right and wrong. Hans Scholl and his younger sister Sophie were part of this group. The Scholls were intelligent, philosophical, and religious. They were dedicated to human rights. Their father's views were liberal and progressive, convictions that no doubt influenced his children.

Hans and Sophie didn't always oppose the Nazi party. They were fifteen and twelve when Hitler came to power. Like many Germans during this time, they joined the Hitler Youth, enticed by promises of happiness, freedom, and prosperity. They watched bands march in front of town halls. They saw youth holding up banners that bore symbols of victory. Germany's morale suffered greatly after World War I and Hitler knew how to provide a much needed boost.

Hans' and Sophie's father was more astute. He questioned how Hitler, with his expanding weapons and barracks, was going to achieve this greatness. He allowed his children to join the Youth Camp, but he continued to point out the inconsistencies between Hitler's promises and his behavior. Hans and Sophie were teenagers. They had to find out for themselves.

It didn't take long. During campfires at Youth Camp, Hans played his guitar and sang folk songs from around the world. The Youth leaders forbid this, only permitting songs from the official Hitler song book. Soon, the party began to censor some of his favorite books. People began to disappear and rumors about atrocities surfaced. Confused and alarmed, Hans and Sophie turned to their father. He told them the truth. He told them how Hitler was waging a battle against life and freedom. Hans and Sophie were appalled by the true aims of the Nazi party. They left the group.