d. Evidence
_Prosecution Documents_ Pros. Ex. Doc. No. No. Description of Document Page NO-3963 528 Extracts from affidavit of Karl Wilhelm 710 Friedrich Tauboeck, 18 June 1947, concerning the development of, and experiments with sterilization drugs. NO-035 142 Letter from Pokorny to Himmler, October 1941, 713 concerning a sterilization drug to be used against Germany’s enemies. NO-036 143 Letter from Himmler, 10 March 1942, to Pohl 714 (initiated by Rudolf Brandt) concerning a sterilization drug and suggesting further research on criminals. NO-038 147 Letter from Rudolf Brandt to Pohl, June 1942, 715 transmitting an inquiry by Himmler as to the progress made with experiments for medical sterilization. NO-046a 148 Letter from Pohl to Himmler, 3 June 1942, 716 concerning the development of a sterilization drug by the firm of Dr. Madaus and Co. NO-046b 149 Letter from Rudolf Brandt to Pohl, 11 June 717 1942, asking him on behalf of Himmler to set up a large hothouse for the development of a sterilization drug. NO-039 153 Letter from Gund to Himmler, 24 August 1942, 717 concerning research in medical sterilization and development of sterilization drugs. NO-203 161 Covering letter from Brack to Himmler, 28 719 March 1941, with report on experiments concerning sterilization and castration by X-rays. NO-205 163 Letter from Brack to Himmler, 23 June 1942, 721 proposing sterilization of two to three million Jews. NO-206 164 Letter from Himmler (countersigned by Rudolf 722 Brandt), 11 August 1942, addressed to Brack, concerning Himmler’s interest in sterilization experiments. NO-208 166 Letter from Blankenburg to Himmler, 29 April 723 1944, regarding employment of Dr. Horst Schumann on experiments concerning the influence of X-rays on human genital glands in connection with similar experiments conducted at concentration camp Auschwitz. NO-211 169 Letter from Professor Clauberg to Himmler, 30 724 May 1942 (referring to a letter from Rudolf Brandt), concerning the urgency of research into biological propagation and sterilization without operation, and draft of a “Research Institute for Biological Propagation.” NO-216 170 Memorandum of Rudolf Brandt, July 1942, on a 728 discussion between Himmler, Gebhardt, Gluecks, and Clauberg concerning sterilization experiments conducted on Jewesses. NO-213 171 Letter from Rudolf Brandt to Clauberg, 10 July 729 1942, transmitting instructions of Himmler to perform sterilizations on Jewesses at concentration camp Ravensbrueck. NO-212 173 Letter from Professor Clauberg to Himmler, 7 730 June 1943, reporting on research in connection with the sterilization of women.
_Testimony_
Extract from the testimony of the defendant Viktor Brack 732
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-3963 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 528
EXTRACTS FROM AFFIDAVIT OF KARL WILHELM FRIEDRICH TAUBOECK, 18 JUNE 1947, CONCERNING THE DEVELOPMENT OF, AND EXPERIMENTS WITH STERILIZATION DRUGS
I, Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Tauboeck, swear, depose, and state:
1. I was born on 21 September 1904 in Josefstadt, Czechoslovakia. I have been an Austrian citizen all my life. From 1910 to 1915 I attended the elementary school in Leitmeritz and Pilsen, Czechoslovakia. From 1915 to 1923 I attended the gymnasium (high school) in Pilsen (Czechoslovakia), Ljubljana (Yugoslavia) and Klosterneuburg (Austria). In June 1923 I graduated from the Klosterneuburg high school. From 1923 to 1925 I studied natural science at the University of Vienna, Austria, specializing in plant physiology and chemistry. In 1925 I studied at Kiel (Germany), where I devoted myself mainly to problems of marine biology and bacteriology. From 1926 to 1927 I again studied the above-mentioned natural science subjects in Vienna (Austria). In December 1927 I was made Doctor of Philosophy with special distinction. My thesis dealt with a problem concerning vegetable chemistry—urea in the plant world.
2. From 1928 to 1929 I was assistant in the Institute of Plant Physiology of the University of Vienna, Austria. In this capacity I had to direct the practical studies of the students and was able to carry out my own research in the field of vegetable chemistry. I also continued my studies there in the medical faculty of that University, in several medical subjects, especially in histology, physiology, physiological chemistry, immunology, and pharmacology. These above-mentioned studies made it possible for me to be able to carry out independently tests on the efficacy of drugs in animal experiments.
3. From 1930 to 1945 I was employed as a biochemist and botanist in the biological laboratory of the I. G. Farbenindustrie A. G. at Ludwigshafen/Rhine. I specialized there in drugs with particular effects on the animal and human organisms, respectively. Through this work I invented various new remedies based on biology. In particular I studied the question of animal poisons for many years and thus produced a new remedy for rheumatism. I also worked on the question of the stimulant from the sensitive plant (Mimosa pudica) and similar substances effective in minimum quantities. During the war years I worked on biochemical problems concerning agriculture and as a result of my work produced an improved fertilizer.
The I. G. Farbenindustrie A. G. at Ludwigshafen at Rhine employed several hundred natural scientists and technicians. Since 1937 I was the senior specialist in vegetable chemistry there.
4. In the fall of 1942, I was instructed by the director of my laboratory, Dr. Mueller-Cunradi, to devote my time to research on the effective substance from the plant caladium seguinum (Schweigrohr). At the beginning of November 1942, I was sent to Dr. Schamberger of the Research Institute Grunewald-Berlin for the purpose of obtaining further information. The Research Institute Grunewald was a cover name for a camouflaged SS office. The address was Grunewald-Berlin, Delbrueckstrasse 6. There I was told that this plant was to be used for sterilizing mental patients. In order to obtain further information about the progress of experiments with caladium seguinum which had already taken place, I had to visit the firm Madaus in Dresden-Radebeul, together with Dr. Schamberger and another SS man. This firm had already made animal experiments with this plant and published the results in a medical journal in 1941. I was introduced to the firm Madaus as Dr. Weiss, so that nobody should know that I was an employee of I. G. Farben. The senior pharmacologist of the firm Madaus asked us: You must be a commission from SS Obergruppenfuehrer Pohl, to which the SS men replied “yes”. The pharmacologist went on to tell us that a few days previously Pohl himself had visited the firm Madaus together with several other people and had mentioned the especial urgency of this work. Furthermore, while visiting the firm Madaus, I checked all the equipment and experiments in the course of one day. By careful examination of sections of mice and rats and of the histological preparations, I was convinced that the publications of the firm Madaus were perfectly true. By this examination I, as a specialist in this field, gained the conviction that sterilization with caladium seguinum is no Utopia, but something which is quite within the bounds of possibility. On the return journey from Dresden to Berlin, the SS men revealed to me that this research was being carried out on the express order of Reich Leader SS Himmler in order to suppress births among the eastern nations. After this fact had been revealed to me I was sworn to secrecy. I was furthermore informed at the Research Institute Grunewald-Berlin that the first preparations were to be supplied as soon as possible, as the Reich Leader SS had ordered the testing of the new method on inmates of concentration camps to take place at once.
5. In order to point out the effectiveness and practical possibility of using caladium seguinum as a sterilization drug, I would like first of all to go into the subject of the history of this plant. Before doing so, however, I would like to add that caladium seguinum is not considered a sterilization drug in the ordinary sense of the word, but a castration drug. This is evident from the fact that the experiments carried out by the firm Madaus have clearly shown that a destruction of the sexual glands of the experimental animals occurred which is equivalent to the surgical removal of such glands. Caladium seguinum is a plant which comes from Brazil. As I know from the literature and the publications made by the firm Madaus, this plant has already been used by the Brazilian natives as a means of sterilization of their enemies. It was administered to the enemies either in food or in arrow wounds. By this method of injection by arrows, only relatively small portions of poison gained from caladium seguinum could have been administered, as the wound produced by arrows may be compared with a large intramuscular injection. From this fact, as learned from literature, results the conclusion that this poison, if obtained by the correct process, is effective even in very small doses. This drug is described in literature as secret, which shows that the enemy did not know that he was being sterilized.
6. Inspired by this experience of the Brazilian natives, the firm Madaus carried out their experiments on animals. The results obtained by the firm Madaus which I have seen with my own eyes confirm the effectiveness of caladium seguinum as a means of sterilization for human beings. It was possible to doubt whether the caladium seguinum was actually effective according to the first rather vague reports coming from Brazil before the experiments of the firm Madaus had been carried out. The experiments of Madaus, however, have eliminated all doubts in this direction.
* * * * *
11. As a result of all examples and explanations mentioned, I am of the opinion that mass production of a castrating preparation from caladium seguinum in Germany or in the German occupied countries is no dream, but could easily have been put into practice. Another proof of the harmfulness of the caladium poison is the fact that the Madaus examinations confirmed beyond doubt the castrative effect of caladium despite all the shortcomings already described. All this made me realize at once the criminal character of such research and for this reason did not carry it out as far as my specific order was concerned. The SS, however, took a great interest in this matter. I received my orders as an employee of the I. G. Farbenindustrie from the Chief of the Security Police, first through the camouflaged office of the Research Institute Grunewald-Berlin and later direct. I know, however, that the firm Madaus placed their orders through SS Obergruppenfuehrer Pohl separately and I am not acquainted with the development of this matter.
I have read the above statement consisting of seven pages, in German, and declare it to be the whole truth to my best knowledge and belief. I was given an opportunity of making alterations and amendments in the above statement. I have made this statement of my own free will, under no duress, without promise of reward.
Nuernberg, 18 June 1947. [Signature] DR. KARL TAUBOECK
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-035 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 142
LETTER FROM POKORNY TO HIMMLER, OCTOBER 1941, CONCERNING A STERILIZATION DRUG TO BE USED AGAINST GERMANY’S ENEMIES
To the Reich Commissioner for the Consolidation of German Folkdom, SS H. Himmler, Chief of Police, Berlin.
I beg you to turn your attention to the following arguments. I have requested Professor Hoehn to forward this letter to you. I have chosen this direct way to you in order to avoid the slower process through channels and the possibility of an indiscretion in regard to the eventually enormous importance of the ideas presented.
Led by the idea that the enemy must not only be conquered but destroyed, I feel obliged to present to you, as the Reich Commissioner for the Consolidation of German Folkdom, the following:
Dr. Madaus published the result of his research on a _medicinal sterilization_ (both articles are enclosed). Reading these articles, the immense importance of this drug in the present fight of our people occurred to me. _If, on the basis of this research, it were possible to produce a drug which, after a relatively short time, effects an imperceptible sterilization on human beings, then we would have a new powerful weapon at our disposal._ The thought alone that the 3 million Bolsheviks, at present German prisoners, could be sterilized so that they could be used as laborers but be prevented from reproduction, opens the most far-reaching perspectives.
Madaus found that the sap of the Schweigrohr (caladium seguinum) when taken by mouth or given as injection to male and also to female animals, after a certain time, produces permanent sterility. The illustrations accompanying the scientific article are convincing.
If my ideas meet your approval, the following course should be taken:
1. Dr. Madaus must not publish any more such articles. (The enemy listens!)
2. Multiplying the plant. (Easily cultivated in greenhouses!)
[Written notation] Dachau
3. Immediate research on human beings (criminals!) in order to determine the dose and length of the treatment.
4. Quick research of the constitutional formula of the effective chemical substance in order to
5. Produce it synthetically if possible.
As German physician and chief physician of the reserves of the German Wehrmacht, retired [d. R. a. D.], I undertake to keep secret the purpose as suggested by me in this letter.
[stamp] Heil Hitler! [Signed] DR. POKORNY Specialist for skin and venereal diseases, M. U. Dr. Ad. Pokorny Komotau Graben 33 Komotau, October 1941
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-036 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 143
LETTER FROM HIMMLER, 10 MARCH 1942, TO POHL (INITIALED BY RUDOLF BRANDT) CONCERNING A STERILIZATION DRUG AND SUGGESTING FURTHER RESEARCH ON CRIMINALS
The Reich Leader SS Journal No. 752/5, RF/H.
Fuehrer Headquarters, 10 March 1942 2 W 1.5.
Dear Pohl,
I read Dr. Pokorny’s very interesting memorandum and Dr. Madaus’ publications on medicinal sterilization. I would ask you to get in touch with Dr. Madaus and to inform him, on my behalf, that he should not publish anything else on these questions of medicinal sterilization, and offer him possibilities of doing research, in cooperation with the Reich Physician SS, on criminals who would have to be sterilized in any case.
The intended plan of research is, however, to be submitted to me by the office engaged on the subject.
Heil Hitler! Yours, [Signed] H. HIMMLER
A copy is forwarded to the Reich Physician SS, SS Gruppenfuehrer Dr. Grawitz with request to take cognizance.
By Order: [Initial] BR. [BRANDT] SS Sturmbannfuehrer
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-038 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 147
LETTER FROM RUDOLF BRANDT TO POHL, JUNE 1942, TRANSMITTING AN INQUIRY BY HIMMLER AS TO THE PROGRESS MADE WITH EXPERIMENTS FOR MEDICAL STERILIZATION
The Reich Leader SS Personal Staff Journal No. AR/752/5, Bra/Bn.
Fuehrer Headquarters, June 1942 Top Secret
SS Obergruppenfuehrer Pohl Berlin
Dear Obergruppenfuehrer,
On 10 March 1942, the Reich Leader SS sent you a memorandum written by Dr. Pokorny and the publication of Dr. Madaus on medicinal sterilization. In cooperation with the Reich Physician SS, experiments were to be made accordingly.
The Reich Leader SS inquired today as to how things were progressing. I would appreciate it if I might have some information soon.
Heil Hitler Yours, [Signed] R. BRANDT SS Obersturmbannfuehrer
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-046a PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 148
LETTER FROM POHL TO HIMMLER, 3 JUNE 1942, CONCERNING THE DEVELOPMENT OF A STERILIZATION DRUG BY THE FIRM OF DR. MADAUS AND CO.
Chief of SS, Economics and Administrative Main Office Ch. Po/Ha
Berlin, 3 June 1942
Subject: Sterilization by means of drugs. Re: Your letter of 3 October 1942. Journal No. AR. 752/52, RF/H
To the Reich Leader SS Berlin SW 11, Prinz Albrecht Strasse 8
Dear Reich Leader:
In reference to the above matter, I had a conversation today with E. Koch, Ph. D. and M. D., director of the Biological Institute of Dr. Madaus and Co., at Dresden-Radebeul.
I advised him of your desire to have publications on this subject discontinued for the time being. Dr. Koch will comply with your request.
Furthermore, experiments have reached a dead point because the caladium seguinum grows only in North America and during the war cannot be imported in adequate quantities. Dr. Koch’s attempts to grow this plant from seed cultivated in hothouses have been successful, it is true; but the process is very slow and the yield is not sufficient to permit carrying on experiments on a large scale.
Dr. Koch is hopeful that this will be remedied if it is possible for us to obtain permission for him to build a larger hothouse. I promised him this.
For the time being this is the first and only practical step to promote the project.
I shall continue reports periodically.
Heil Hitler! [Signed] POHL SS Obergruppenfuehrer and General of the Waffen SS
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-046b PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 149
LETTER FROM RUDOLF BRANDT TO POHL, 11 JUNE 1942, ASKING HIM ON BEHALF OF HIMMLER TO SET UP A LARGE HOTHOUSE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A STERILIZATION DRUG
The Reich Leader SS Personal Staff, Diary No. 1230/42, Bra/Bu Fuehrer’s Headquarters, 11 June 1942 Re: Medical sterilization. To SS Obergruppenfuehrer Pohl Berlin
Dear Obergruppenfuehrer,
I have informed the Reich Leader SS of your letter of 3 June 1942. He asks you to see to it without fail that a large hothouse is set up as soon as possible for Dr. Koch. He considers the experiments extremely important.
The Reich Leader SS asks you to continue to send in further reports.
Heil Hitler [Signed] B. SS Obersturmbannfuehrer
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-039 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 153
LETTER FROM GUND TO HIMMLER, 24 AUGUST 1942, CONCERNING RESEARCH IN MEDICAL STERILIZATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF STERILIZATION DRUGS
Secret The Deputy Gauleiter of Lower Danube [Lower Austria]
Vienna, 9, Wasagasse 10, 24 August 1942 Ge/Schd—310/42 g
To: The Reich Leader SS Pg. Heinrich Himmler Berlin SW 1, Prinz Albrecht Strasse 8 Sir,
At the orders of Gauleiter Dr. Jury, his staff have hitherto busied themselves especially with the problems of population, racial policy, and antisocial elements. Since the prevention of reproduction by the congenitally unfit and racially inferior belongs to the duties of our National Socialist racial and demographic policy, the present Director of the District Office for Racial Policy, Gauhauptstellenleiter Dr. Fehringer, has examined the question of sterilization and found that the methods so far available, castration and sterilization, are not sufficient in themselves to meet expectations. Consequently, the obvious question occurred to him whether impotence and sterility could not be produced in both men and women by the administration of medicine or injections. So he came to the studies of the Biological Institute of Dr. Madaus, in Dresden-Radebeul, on animal experiments for medical sterilization, which became accessible to him through the Madaus Annual Report, IVth year, 1940, and are of the greatest interest for our demographic policy. Madaus and Koch found that caladium sequinum used in homeopathic doses, that is, administered in infinitesimal quantities, favorably affects impotence, sterility, and frigidity (sexual indifference), so that clinical and medical research should not proceed without regard to this fact. It was established by an extensive series of experiments on rats, rabbits, and dogs that, as the result of the administration or injection of caladium extract, male animals became impotent and females barren, and the differences in effect of the various methods of applying the drug could be seen. From the animal experiments, it seems that a permanent sterility is liable to result in male animals and a more temporary one in females.
It is clear that these observations could be of tremendous importance if alterations of potency or fecundity could also be successfully brought about in human beings by the administration of a caladium extract. Research on human beings themselves would, of course, be necessary for this. The director of my race policy office points out that the necessary research and human experiments could be undertaken by an appropriately selected medical staff, basing their work on the Madaus animal experiments in cooperation with the pharmacological institute of the Faculty of Medicine of Vienna, on the persons of the inmates of the gypsy camp of Lackenbach in Lower Danube.
It is quite clear that such research must be handled as a nationally important secret matter of the most dangerous character, because enemy propaganda could work tremendous harm all over the world by the knowledge of such research, should it come by such knowledge.
Since these considerations are only a theory, the fundamental accuracy of which has already been established by animal experiments and the possibility of the application of which to human beings is highly probable, a mere indication only can be given of the prospects of the possibility of the sterilization of practically unlimited numbers of people in the shortest time and in the simplest way conceivable.
In this connection, I may perhaps point out that it would surely be worth while to study the old cults and the knowledge of their priests concerning the promotion and prevention of human potency and fecundity. Primitive, primeval populations which are close to nature had, and still have, a very extensive knowledge of this subject without these things being known to science. It is known, for instance, that the natives of South America attempted to destroy the potency of their enemies by administering caladium seguinum to them.
I should be particularly grateful to you if you would give me your opinion in this respect when the occasion arises, or even order a concrete working plan to be submitted to you. Gauleiter Dr. Jury would personally have approached you with this plan were he not at present away on a vacation.
Heil Hitler! Yours faithfully, [Signed] K. GUND SS Oberfuehrer
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-203 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 161
COVERING LETTER FROM BRACK TO HIMMLER, 28 MARCH 1941, WITH REPORT ON EXPERIMENTS CONCERNING STERILIZATION AND CASTRATION BY X-RAYS
Viktor Brack Oberdienstleiter
Berlin, 28 March 1941
To the Reich Leader SS and Chief of the German Police Berlin SW 11, Prinz Albrecht Str. 8 H. H. [Handwritten initials]
Top Secret
[Handwritten]: 1 read 2+ 5 May 41
Dear Reich Leader:
Enclosed herewith for your information is the result of the investigations into the possibility of sterilization or castration, respectively, by means of X-rays. I request your instructions as to what further theoretical or practical steps, if any, are to be taken in this matter.
Heil Hitler! [SIGNED] BRACK Enclosure
The experiments in this field are concluded. The following result can be considered as established and adequately based on scientific research:
If any persons are to be sterilized permanently, this result can only be attained by applying X-rays in a dosage high enough to produce castration with all its consequences, since high X-ray dosages destroy the internal secretion of the ovary, or of the testicles, respectively. Lower dosages would only temporarily paralyze the procreative capacity. The consequences in question are for example the disappearance of menstruation, climacteric phenomena, changes in capillary growth, modification of metabolism, etc. In any case, attention must be drawn to these disadvantages.
The actual dosage can be given in various ways, and the irradiation can take place quite imperceptibly. The necessary local dosage for men is 500-600 r, for women 300-350 r. In general, an irradiation period of 2 minutes for men, 3 minutes for women, with the highest voltage, a thin filter and at a short distance, ought to be sufficient. There is, however, a disadvantage that has to be put up with: as it is impossible unnoticeably to cover the rest of the body with lead, the other tissues of the body will be injured, and radiologic malaise, the so-called “Roentgenkater”, will ensue. If the X-ray intensity is too high, those parts of the skin which the rays have reached will exhibit symptoms of burns—varying in severity in individual cases—in the course of the following days or weeks.
One practical way of proceeding would be, for instance, to let the persons to be treated approach a counter, where they could be asked to answer some questions or to fill in forms, which would take them 2 or 3 minutes. The official sitting behind the counter could operate the installation in such a way as to turn a switch which would activate the two valves simultaneously (since the irradiation has to operate from both sides). With a two-valve installation about 150-200 persons could then be sterilized per day, and therefore, with 20 such installations as many as 3,000-4,000 persons per day. In my estimation a larger daily number could not in any case be sent away for this purpose. As to the expenses for such a two-valve system, I can only give a rough estimate of approximately 20,000-30,000 RM. Additionally, however, there would be the cost of the construction of a new building, because adequately extensive protective installations would have to be provided for the officials on duty.
In summary, it may be said that, having regard to the present state of radiological technique and research, mass sterilization by means of X-rays can be carried out without difficulty. However, it seems to be impossible to do this in such a way that the persons concerned do not sooner or later realize with certainty that they have been sterilized or castrated by X-rays.
[Signed] BRACK
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-205 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 163
LETTER FROM BRACK TO HIMMLER, 23 JUNE 1942, PROPOSING STERILIZATION OF TWO TO THREE MILLION JEWS
Viktor Brack SS Oberfuehrer
Berlin, W 8, Voss-Strasse 4, 23 June 1942 [Initial] HH
Top Secret
To the Reich Leader SS and Chief of the German Police Heinrich Himmler, Berlin SW 11, Prinz Albrecht Str. 8
Dear Reich Leader,
On the instructions of Reich Leader [Reichsleiter] Bouhler I placed some of my men—already some time ago—at the disposal of Brigadefuehrer Globocnik to execute his special mission. On his renewed request I have now transferred additional personnel. On this occasion Brigadefuehrer Globocnik stated his opinion that the whole Jewish action should be completed as quickly as possible so that one would not get caught in the middle of it one day if some difficulties should make a stoppage of the action necessary. You, yourself, Reich Leader, have already expressed your view, that work should progress quickly for reasons of camouflage alone. Both points which in principle arrive at the same result are more than justified as far as my own experience goes; nevertheless would you kindly allow me to submit the following argument:
Among 10 millions of Jews in Europe there are, I figure, at least 2-3 millions of men and women who are fit enough to work. Considering the extraordinary difficulties the labor problem presents us with, I hold the view that those 2-3 millions should be specially selected and preserved. This can, however, only be done if at the same time they are rendered incapable to propagate. About a year ago I reported to you that agents of mine had completed the experiments necessary for this purpose. I would like to recall these facts once more. Sterilization, as normally performed on persons with hereditary diseases, is here out of the question, because it takes too long and is too expensive. Castration by X-ray however is not only relatively cheap, but can also be performed on many thousands in the shortest time. I think, that at this time it is already irrelevant whether the people in question become aware of having been castrated after some weeks or months once they feel the effects.
Should you, Reich Fuehrer, decide to choose this way in the interest of the preservation of labor, then Reichsleiter Bouhler would be prepared to place all physicians and other personnel needed for this work at your disposal. Likewise he requested me to inform you that then I would have to order the apparatus so urgently needed with the greatest speed.
Heil Hitler! Yours, [Signed] VIKTOR BRACK
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-206 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 164
LETTER FROM HIMMLER (COUNTERSIGNED BY RUDOLF BRANDT), 11 AUGUST 1942, ADDRESSED TO BRACK, CONCERNING HIMMLER’S INTEREST IN STERILIZATION EXPERIMENTS
The Reich Leader SS 1314/42 [Handwritten]
XIa/126 [Handwritten] 11 August 1942 Figure 11—[Handwritten] SS Senior Col. (SS Oberfuehrer) Brack Field Headquarters Berlin W 8 Voss-Strasse 4 Top Secret 4 copies 4th copy Dear Brack:
It is only today that I have the opportunity of acknowledging the receipt of your letter of 23 June. I am positively interested in seeing that sterilization by X-rays is tried out at least once in one camp in a series of experiments.
I will be very much obliged to Reichsleiter Bouhler if, to begin with, he would place the expert physicians for the series of experiments at our disposal.
I will mail a copy of this letter to the Reich Physician SS and to the competent Chief of the Main Office for concentration camps.
Heil Hitler! Yours, [Signed] H. HIMMLER
SS Obergruppenfuehrer Pohl SS Gruppenfuehrer Dr. Grawitz For information. By order [Handwritten] BR. SS Obersturmbannfuehrer [Stamp] 11 August 1942
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-208 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 166
LETTER FROM BLANKENBURG TO HIMMLER, 29 APRIL 1944, REGARDING EMPLOYMENT OF DR. HORST SCHUMANN ON EXPERIMENTS CONCERNING THE INFLUENCE OF X-RAYS ON HUMAN GENITAL GLANDS IN CONNECTION WITH SIMILAR EXPERIMENTS CONDUCTED AT CONCENTRATION CAMP AUSCHWITZ
Chancellery of the Fuehrer of the NSDAP File No: IIa/Kt.
Berlin W 8, Vosstrasse 4, 29 April 1944 Telephone No.: local 120054 Long distance 126621
Top Secret
To the Reich Leader SS and Chief of the German Police, Heinrich Himmler
Berlin SW 11, Prinz Albrecht Strasse 9 Dear Reich Leader!
By order of Reich Leader (Reichsleiter) Bouhler I submit to you as an enclosure a work of Dr. Horst Schumann on the influence of X-rays on human genital glands.
Previously you have asked Senior Colonel [Oberfuehrer] Brack to perform this work, and you supported it by providing the adequate material in the concentration camp Auschwitz. I point especially to the 2d part of this work, which shows that by those means a castration of males is almost impossible or requires an effort which does not pay. As I have convinced myself, operative castration requires not more than 6 to 7 minutes, and therefore can be performed more reliably and quicker than castration by X-rays.
Soon I shall be able to submit a continuation of this work to you.
Heil Hitler! [Handwritten] Your devoted, [Signed] BLANKENBURG
Enclosure
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-211 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 169
LETTER FROM PROFESSOR CLAUBERG TO HIMMLER, 30 MAY 1942 (REFERRING TO A LETTER FROM RUDOLF BRANDT), CONCERNING THE URGENCY OF RESEARCH INTO BIOLOGICAL PROPAGATION AND STERILIZATION WITHOUT OPERATION, AND DRAFT OF A “RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR BIOLOGICAL PROPAGATION”
Professor C. Clauberg, M. D. Chief Physician of the Gynecological Clinics of the Miners’ (Knappschaft) Hospital and of the St. Hedwig Hospital.
Koenigshuette, Upper Silesia, 30 May 1942 Telephone 409-31 [Handwritten] Wednesday 8 July
To the Reich Leader SS Heinrich Himmler Through SS Obergruppenfuehrer and General of the Police Schmauser
[Handwritten] discussed H. H. [Heinrich Himmler]
Dear Reich Leader!
In answer to my letter of 5 June 1941 “concerning the Research Institute for Biological Propagation” I received at that time by return mail the answer of your personal adjutant, SS Sturmbannfuehrer Brandt, dated 19 June 1941 saying that you, Reich Leader, would come back to my expose as soon as possible. Without any doubt the far more important events of the war which happened shortly afterwards prevented this.
If I may remind you briefly, the continuation of my work had been rendered impossible because of the problem of carrying out the procurement of female concentration camp inmates. On the occasion of a scientific discussion with the Stabsfuehrer of your office here, SS Obersturmbannfuehrer Dr. Arlt, I also happened to speak about my research activities in the field of biological propagation. Dr. Arlt told me then that the one person in Germany today who would be particularly interested in these matters and who would be able to help me would be you, most honorable Reich Leader. In his capacity as a member of the SS and Stabsfuehrer of your office here, I then told him briefly that I had already submitted this matter to you.
After this discussion, I most obediently take the liberty of asking you to make it possible for me to carry out these tasks here in Upper Silesia.
In order to explain what would be necessary at the moment—that is, at least for the time being—the two most urgent questions and fundamental problems should be stated briefly once more.
A. In the question of the positive population policy, the eventual or most probable importance of agriculture for the female capacity for propagation demands clarification. This is to be thoroughly probed and tested by experiments on animals, namely, on the experimental animal which is proverbially most fertile and at the same time variable in its fertility—the rabbit. The question is whether good general nutrition with food obtained through intensive farming can reduce fertility, and if this should be the case, what factor (positive or negative) is responsible.
B. In the question of the negative population policy the situation now is such that from animal experiments (in which I have demonstrated the possibility of sterilization without operation) we must proceed to the first experiments on human beings.
For that purpose the following is necessary:
With ref. to A. _Problem of fertility and agriculture._
1. Land—that is, as much “untouched”, “wild” or hitherto “badly” farmed land as possible. For the first animal experiments to be conducted at least 10 Morgen [Morgen = 2/3 of an acre] would be needed.
2. Personnel to till the land.
3. Animal material—that is, a few hundred female rabbits and the corresponding number of males necessary.
4. Animal hutches and shelters.
5. Persons to attend and guard the animals.
With ref. to B. _Sterilization without operation._
1. Occasional special billeting for 5 to 10 women (single rooms or rooms for two persons) corresponding to the conditions of sick rooms.
2. Special X-ray apparatus with installation and accessories.
3. Smaller outfit of instruments and material.
Reich Leader! Without wishing to anticipate your decision, I am taking the liberty of proposing that the experiments necessary for A and B be carried out at the Auschwitz concentration camp and that the facilities there be used. As I already told you in the course of our conversation, I would be very much pleased to work under you as head of an experimental institute, directed exclusively by you.
I believe that in view of the procurement of the land, the necessary animals, the attending personnel, and the human material to be provided, an annex to your camp in Upper Silesia would offer the best facilities. Cash would be needed only for the procurement of—
With ref. to A.
1. _Animal material._
2. _Material for the animals’ stables and shelters._
3. _A conscientious working person to attend them._
With ref. to B.
4. _Special accommodations for 5 to 10 female camp inmates undergoing experiments._
5. _Eventually a special X-ray installation._
6. _Smaller outfit of instruments and material._
Reich Leader! The explanations and dispositions made here are related to the fact that the most necessary and most urgent means for solution of this problem should at once be created and set in motion. My suggestions are absolutely adapted to the present times and attempt to meet the circumstances. As one problem arises from the other or—I should rather say—as many further problems will arise, the ideal pattern of such a “Research Institution of the Reich Leader SS for Biological Propagation” the establishment of which is to be considered, would present itself as an entity, on the one hand far greater in scope, and on the other hand more concentrated and closely knit in shape. A short sketch is enclosed as a suggestion for that purpose. This suggestion is to demonstrate the possibility of realization of all the thoughts discussed and submitted to you.
Heil Hitler! Yours most obediently, [Signed] PROF. CLAUBERG.
* * * * *
Draft of a “Research Institute for Biological Propagation”
The center from which all ideas start, all problems are raised and their execution directed, and finally turned over into practical use, is and remains the clinic. It must be an obstetric clinic at the same time. For the problems (which are mostly of a hormonal nature) do not merely extend into practical gynecology and obstetrics but also reach deeply into them and remain most closely connected with pregnancy and obstetrics as well. These problems are just as unlimited and therefore must necessarily be solved step by step, as they are proving to be successful for obstetrics also in the future.
In this clinic the possibility must be provided—
_a._ for most intensive treatment of women hitherto sterile but desirous of bearing children and for applying and testing of newly gained experiences in cases hitherto seemingly hopeless.
_b._ to evaluate the method of sterilization without operation (bloodless sterilization) on women unworthy of propagation and to use this method continually after it is finally proved efficient.
Attached to this clinic there is to be—
_c._ a laboratory for extensive animal experiments, which will always serve as a basis for further research.
There should also be incorporated in this research station—
_d._ an experimental farm as a basis for the solution of the questions of “agriculture and fertility,” that is—
1. far reaching nutrition experiments on animals, and
2. far reaching nutrition experiments on human beings (female camp inmates).
Sketch enclosed.
[Handwritten] 30 May 1942.
CLAUBERG “_Research Institute for Biological Propagation_”
_Experimental Farm_—
_a._ For far reaching nutrition experiments on the animal.
Laboratory for further experimental research on animals.
_b._ For far reaching nutrition experiments on human beings. (Special production of food for female camp inmates.)
_Clinic for gynecology and obstetrics_
_Clinical and Polyclinical Department_—
_a._ Treatment of sterile women desired to propagate.
_b._ Further clinical research on cases of sterility hitherto seemingly hopeless.
_Clinical department_—
For sterilization without operation (bloodless sterilization) on women (women unworthy of propagation or women whose propagation is not desirable—at first to test method without operation, later for current use).
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-216 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 170
MEMORANDUM OF RUDOLF BRANDT, JULY 1942, ON A DISCUSSION BETWEEN HIMMLER, GEBHARDT, GLUECKS, AND CLAUBERG CONCERNING STERILIZATION EXPERIMENTS CONDUCTED ON JEWESSES
Fuehrer Headquarters, July 1942 Top Secret 1 copy
On 7 July 1942 a discussion took place between the Reich Leader SS, SS Brigadefuehrer Professor Dr. Gebhardt, SS Brigadefuehrer Gluecks, and SS Brigadefuehrer Clauberg, Koenigshuette. The topic of the discussion was the sterilization of Jewesses. The Reich Leader SS has promised SS Brigadefuehrer Professor Clauberg that Auschwitz concentration camp will be at his disposal for his experiments on human beings and animals. By means of some fundamental experiments, a method should be found which would lead to sterilization of persons without their knowledge. The Reich Leader SS wanted to get another report as soon as the result of these experiments was known, so that the sterilization of Jewesses could then be carried out in actuality.
It should also be examined, preferably in cooperation with Professor Dr. Hohlfelder, an X-ray specialist in Germany, what way sterilization of men could be achieved by X-ray treatment.
The Reich Leader SS called the special attention of all gentlemen present to the fact that the matter involved was most secret and should be discussed only with the officers in charge and that the persons present at the experiments or discussions had to pledge secrecy.
[Signed] BRANDT SS Obersturmbannfuehrer.
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-213 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 171
LETTER FROM RUDOLF BRANDT TO CLAUBERG, 10 JULY 1942, TRANSMITTING INSTRUCTIONS OF HIMMLER TO PERFORM STERILIZATIONS ON JEWESSES AT CONCENTRATION CAMP RAVENSBRUECK
Reich Leader SS Personal Staff Journal Number 1266/42, Bra/Dr.
[Handwritten] Returned 31 October 1942 by Pol. Administration K. Fuehrer Headquarters, 10 July 1942 Top Secret [Handwritten] Original handed to G. 6 copies—6th copy
1. Professor Clauberg Koenigshuette.
[Handwritten] W 1-10 1-5-43
Dear Professor!
Today the Reich Leader SS charged me with transmitting to you his wish that you go to Ravensbrueck after you have had another talk with SS Obergruppenfuehrer Pohl and the camp physician of the women’s concentration camp Ravensbrueck, in order to perform the sterilization of Jewesses according to your method.
Before you start your job, the Reich Leader SS would be interested to learn from you how long it would take to sterilize a thousand Jewesses. The Jewesses themselves should not know anything about it. As the Reich Leader SS understands it, you could give the appropriate injections during a general examination.
Thorough experiments should be conducted to investigate the effect of the sterilization largely in a way that you find out after a certain time, which you would have to fix, perhaps by X-rays, what kind of changes have taken place. In some cases a practical experiment might be arranged by locking up a Jewess and a Jew together for a certain period and then seeing what results are achieved.
I ask you to let me know your opinion about my letter for the information of the Reich Leader SS.
Heil Hitler! [Signed] BRANDT SS Obersturmbannfuehrer
2. To SS Obergruppenfuehrer Pohl, Berlin. [Handwritten] delivered to Boemer
Please acknowledge. SS Obersturmbannfuehrer Koegel also received a copy for the information of the camp physician. Moreover the Reich Physician SS and the Reich Security Main Office (RSHA) received a copy.
[Signed] BRANDT SS Obersturmbannfuehrer
3. To SS Gruppenfuehrer Grawitz, Reich Physician SS.
Please acknowledge.
[Signed] BRANDT SS Obersturmbannfuehrer
4. To SS. Obersturmbannfuehrer Koegel, WVHA.
Please acknowledge and inform the camp physician.
[Signed] BRANDT SS Obersturmbannfuehrer
5. To the Reich Security Main Office (RSHA), Berlin.
SS Sturmbannfuehrer Guenther, IV B 4 (Department for Jews).
[Handwritten] SS GRUF. MUELLER
Please acknowledge.
[Initialed] BR. SS Obersturmbannfuehrer
TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENT NO-212 PROSECUTION EXHIBIT 173
LETTER FROM PROFESSOR CLAUBERG TO HIMMLER, 7 JUNE 1943, REPORTING ON RESEARCH IN CONNECTION WITH THE STERILIZATION OF WOMEN
Professor Dr. C. Clauberg,
Chief Physician of the Clinics for Women of the Miners’ (Knappschaft) Hospital and the St. Hedwig Hospital
Koenigshuette O. S., 7 June 1943 Telephone: 409-31
Secret
To the Reich Leader SS Heinrich Himmler Berlin Dear Reich Leader,
Today I am fulfilling my obligation to report to you from time to time about the state of my research work. In doing this I am, as before, adhering to the procedure to report only if the matter is essential. The fact that, after my most recent interview in July 1942, I could not do so before today is due to temporary difficulties against which I myself was powerless and with which I could not bother you, Reich Leader. I mention as an example that only since February 1943 am I in possession of an X-ray installation, which is of great value to my special research. In spite of the short period of actually only 4 months, it is already today possible to report to you the following:
_The method I contrived to achieve the sterilization of the female organism without operation is as good as perfected. It can be performed by a single injection made through the entrance of the uterus in the course of the customary gynecological examination known to every physician._—If I say that the method is “as good as perfected,” this means:
1. Still to be worked out are only minor improvements of the method.
2. Already today it could be put to practical use in the course of our _regular_ eugenic sterilization and could thus replace the operation.
As to the question which you, Reich Leader, asked me almost one year ago, i. e., how much time would probably be required to sterilize 1,000 women by using this method. Today I can answer you with regard to the future as follows:
If my researches continue to have the same results as up to now—and there is no reason to doubt that—then the moment is not far off when I can say:
“_One_ adequately trained physician in _one_ adequately equipped place, with perhaps 10 assistants (the number of assistants in conformity with the speed desired) _will most likely be able to deal with several hundred, if not even 1,000 per day_.”
Please permit me to postpone my report about the other part of my researches (positive population policy) because it will take some time until something decisive can be said in this field.
Reich Leader! The main reason for my reporting to you today, shortly before the possibility of even more final results, is the following:
I know that the settlement of the last part of this particular complex of problems—in contrast to the external forces which determined the progress so far—depends _now_ almost entirely on me. In this connection, several minor but nevertheless fundamental changes would be necessary which only you, my dear Reich Leader, can personally direct and order. I had hoped that I would be able to give you personally a short description of these requirements in the event of a visit to Upper Silesia. Since I have not had this opportunity, I am asking you for your decision today.
In addition I should like to make a further request. It was SS Brigadefuehrer _Dr. Blumenreuter_ who finally managed to get me the one suitable X-ray installation. I am in urgent need of another installation of the same kind, and he informed me in February that he had another one stored in Berlin. He was ready to deliver it to me if I would secure your approval.
May I ask you, Reich Leader, for this approval?
Heil Hitler! [Signed] CLAUBERG EXTRACT FROM THE TESTIMONY OF THE DEFENDANT VIKTOR BRACK[84]
_DIRECT EXAMINATION_
* * * * *
DR. FROESCHMANN: What plans are you talking about?
DEFENDANT BRACK: The plans to exterminate the Jews which I told you about before. Having known them and having been in the Party Chancellery in the course of this conversation when I told Himmler that Grafeneck was to be abandoned, Himmler also told me of communications he had received from Poland, according to which the Jews there were using the temporary impotence of the Polish government to strengthen their own position and Himmler said something had to be done about this. He said something had to be undertaken to stop this because through the mixing of blood in the Polish Jews with that of the Jews from Western Europe a much greater danger for Germany was arising than even before the war, and he said it was his intention to sterilize the Jews according to reliable methods, according to a procedure which would permit mass sterilization. Operative sterilization was out of the question for one thing because you couldn’t do that without leaving some scar. Then he brought up the question, could not this be done with X-ray treatment? However, I didn’t know about this for sure, and in fact nobody knew about it, and especially didn’t know whether the person in question could be treated without noticing something. Himmler then said that Bouhler had gathered together so many scientists and doctors in the Euthanasia Program, consequently I should try to find out from him what he could tell me about sterilization, and tell him to report to me again.
Q. Well, what was the effect of this communication from Himmler on you?
A. This made a great impression on me. I believed that Heydrich could really have been the instigator of all of this.
In my interrogation I told the interrogator that I regarded such a plan to exterminate the Jews as unworthy of Germany and its leaders. From what I knew of Himmler it would never have occurred to me that such a destructive idea could have originated in his mind. Be that, however, as it may, whether the idea originated with Heydrich or Bormann, my attitude was opposed to this; and I felt that I was under the obligation to do anything I could to prevent this. If I had raised the least objection to it openly, I would have aroused great suspicion of myself and would have aroused a false reaction in Himmler. Therefore, I had to make the best of a bad job and had to pretend that I agreed with Himmler. I pretended to be willing to clarify the question of mass sterilization through X-ray methods. Many years ago I had been subjected to X-ray treatment for quite a period of time and had discussed with the doctor the effect of X-rays on the human body. Now I remembered from those discussions that the effect of X-rays on the sexual organs is only of slight importance and not lasting. Moreover, I knew that one of my associates was personally acquainted with an X-ray specialist and he told me that this specialist was conducting experiments on the effects of X-rays on the fertility of animals. However, there seemed to be no result.
Q. Mr. President, I present an affidavit of 25 February 1947, by Dr. Martin Zeller, a specialist, born 3 December 1880, living in Munich, signed by him on this same date and certified by myself. (_Brack 26, Brack Ex. 31._) This affidavit contributes to the understanding of this matter now under discussion and I quote:
“I remember distinctly that 10 to 15 years ago I spoke to Viktor Brack about X-ray injuries. Brack was worried that he might develop an X-ray injury; at that time his knee had been X-rayed. When some time afterwards he had rough hands he thought that might be an X-ray burn. I explained to him that no injuries could result from our X-ray examinations since the quantities of radiation used for diagnosis were small and besides, the more distant parts of the body (that is, in the case of a picture of the knee being taken, the hands and genitals) were not in the danger zone under modern technical conditions.
“I also made the remark that even an intentional sterilization by X-ray treatment would, especially in the case of young persons, be difficult to achieve and even then only with a strong dose of prolonged radiation.”
And then in paragraph 2 the witness continues:
“It is quite possible that Brack in this way developed the views he brought forward, i. e., that the effect of X-rays upon the sexual organs is negligible, and that the danger of sterilization does not exist at all. The layman will not differentiate between X-ray diagnostics and X-ray therapy.”
A. I took this associate into my confidence and told him of my intention to deceive Himmler, if only to gain time. We agreed to deceive Himmler by giving him a certificate that seemed to say that sterilization by X-ray methods was possible and we would thus get him to pursue a false path. Just what was said in this certificate I do not know any longer. At any rate there were no positive results in it so that we couldn’t put it to Himmler in this form.
DR. FROESCHMANN: Mr. President, let me remark in this connection, that after great efforts I have succeeded in finding the man who drew up this certificate of which the witness has just been speaking. I have found out his name and address. He lives in the Russian zone and for that reason it was not possible for me to get a copy of that certificate that he drew up at that time. However, I have contacted this doctor and he has declared his readiness to come to Nuernberg and to give me an affidavit, because as he said it, it would be a matter of course that he should help an innocent man if his testimony could do so. He does remember having given this certificate to Brack or to his associates and I ask permission to reserve the right to put this affidavit in evidence as soon as I have it, and when perhaps the doctor has had a chance to speak to the defendant.
PRESIDING JUDGE BEALS: Counsel for defendant Brack may offer the affidavit as soon as it is received so long as it complies with the evidence in the case.
DR. FROESCHMANN: Thank you, your Honor. Witness, please continue.
DEFENDANT BRACK: Naturally, this factor of uncertainty had to be taken into consideration.
Q. What exactly are you speaking of?
A. I am talking about the report we received.
Q. You mean the man who drew up the certificate, the expert?
A. Yes.
PRESIDING JUDGE BEALS: Now, counsel, I don’t want you to misunderstand me. I said counsel may offer the affidavit; that means it is offered subject to any objection raised by the prosecution as to the form of the affidavit or its relevancy. Yesterday, the affidavits from Brazil were possibly offered by you because the Tribunal had said that they might be offered. The right to offer simply means offered, subject to objection, and that is not equivalent to saying that the affidavit will be received in evidence but it may be offered. That is the sense in which I have used the word “offer” towards this affidavit.
DR. FROESCHMANN: Yes, your Honor, I understood the President and I shall only submit an affidavit which is in compliance with the regulation of this Tribunal. Would you please continue, Witness?
DEFENDANT BRACK: My collaborator changed the contents of this certificate in such a manner that sterilization becomes apparent as something possible from a medical point of view. That is exactly what is contained in my affidavit. Thus, this letter dated 28 March 1941, originated with Document NO-203, Prosecution Exhibit 161.
Q. Mr. President, let us reconstruct this letter quite shortly. I shall quote. It is addressed by Brack to Himmler, marked “Top Secret.”
“Dear Reich Leader:
“Enclosed I send to you for your information the report of the examination regarding the possibility of an X-ray sterilization or castration. I ask you to tell me whether anything can be done in the matter either theoretically or practically.”
That is the covering letter. This covering letter, Witness, in connection with the report which is attached was considered by the prosecution as being a serious suggestion for sterilization and the prosecution in that connection has stated that this needed no comment. What is your attitude toward it?
A. Neither the former nor the latter is correct. I admit that if one reads this letter or report without knowing the connections that impression can be created. I therefore have to attempt to analyze this report in order to explain to the Tribunal what we tried to achieve with this letter. I have to emphasize once more that the entire thing was a maneuver of deceit.
Q. With reference to the report which you attached to this letter (_NO-203, Pros. Ex. 161_) I should like to quote from it a very brief passage:
“Report on experiments concerning X-ray castration.
“The experiments in this field are concluded. The following result can be considered as established and adequately based on scientific research.
“If any persons are to be sterilized permanently, this result can only be attained by applying X-rays in a dosage high enough to produce castration with all its consequences, since high X-ray dosages destroy the internal secretion of the ovary or of the testicles, respectively. Lower dosages would only temporarily paralyze the procreative capacity. The consequences in question are, for example, the disappearance of menstruation, climacteric phenomena, changes in capillary growth, modification of metabolism, etc. In any case, attention must be drawn to these disadvantages.
“The actual dosage can be given in various ways, and irradiation can take place quite imperceptibly. The necessary local dosage for men is 500-600 r, for women 300-350 r. In general, an irradiation period of 2 minutes for men, 3 minutes for women, with the highest voltage, a thin filter, and at a short distance ought to be sufficient. There is, however, a disadvantage that has to be put up with. It is impossible unnoticeably to cover the rest of the body with lead, the other tissues of the body will be injured, and radiologic malaise, the so-called ‘Roentgenkater,’ will ensue.”
Witness, would you define your attitude toward this letter which I partly read?
A. I was speaking in connection with the talk I had with Himmler in the year of 1941. This becomes apparent from the paragraph “I herewith submit the result of an X-ray examination.” It looks now as though in effect experiments had been carried out by scientists, which was not the case. Himmler had to be reassured and that is why we had to emphasize that the experiments had been concluded and the result could be based on scientific work. Of course, we couldn’t state the result as being absolutely positive. We had to leave it to Himmler himself to judge it. In the first instance it was our intention to get Himmler off the idea. That is why we chose the formulation which can be seen in that letter—“If any persons are to be sterilized permanently.” It meant in effect that this was theoretically possible. At the same time, however, we pointed out that this success cannot be concealed and that phenomena will arise. That obviously was shown by the contents of the certificate itself, and it is emphasized that permanent sterilization makes a high dosage of X-rays necessary. These high dosages would then bring about the effects of castration with all of the accompanying symptoms which would be noticed immediately. If, however, lower dosages were used, you would only have stopped procreative capacity for a short time. We actually said that at the end of the report, namely, that the result of sterilization could be ascertained after a comparatively short time but that it was impossible to achieve the results of bringing about sterilization without being noticed, and in this way we thought we could get Himmler to give up that idea.
Q. Now, this was the first part of the letter. Now, let us discuss the second part. I am again referring to the method which you suggested to Himmler. You thought at that time “One practical way of proceeding would be, for instance, to let the persons to be treated approach a counter, where they could be asked to answer some questions or to fill in forms, which take them 2 or 3 minutes. The official sitting behind the counter could operate the installation in such a way as to turn a switch which would activate the two valves simultaneously (since the irradiation is to operate from both sides). With a two-valve installation about 150-200 persons could then be sterilized per day and, therefore, with 20 such installations as many as 3,000-4,000 persons per day. In my estimation a larger daily number could not in any case be sent away for this purpose.”
Herr Brack, how could you arrive at this idea of turning switches? This is completely nonunderstandable for a layman.
A. Himmler wanted this procedure to be carried out as simply as possible. Therefore, we had to suggest as simple a method as we could think of. On the other hand, this method increased the uncertainty of directing the rays to the corresponding parts of the body. That is what was discussed by my collaborator with his acquaintance. We suggested this switch method to Himmler with the idea of making this matter as simple as possible and at the same time preventing any active X-ray reaching the body. Furthermore, only 2-3 minutes were suggested as the length of time for these people to be subjected to these X-rays. How we arrived at these 500-600 figures—or 350 r.—I don’t know whether they were just invented or whether they were based upon something. I don’t know. But looking at it as a whole it contained a number of points that were to demonstrate to Himmler that the whole thing could not be carried out. There is a scientific basis for these suggestions.
DR. FROESCHMANN: Mr. President, in connection with this point I have tried to get an unobjectionable irreproachable certificate for the correctness of what the defendant just stated. I shall get a certificate from a specialist. The man concerned says that this suggestion is absolutely senseless. I had, however, to wait for this certificate because I had to wait for an affidavit from another expert physician. With the permission of the Tribunal, I shall obtain a corresponding certificate from a radiologist who can show that it is credible that this entire suggestion was really scientific nonsense.
A. We had to take into account the possibility that Himmler might accept this proposal in spite of all these difficulties. We knew, however, that the preparation of any such installation would take a long time, for the building, etc. We thought that the war would end very quickly, and as I said before I didn’t know there was any threat from the West. And, in case of peace, the Madagascar plan, which had already been rejected, could once more be placed in the foreground. If on the other hand this suggestion was to be accepted and if at that time the war had not yet ended, the carrying out of this experiment on the 100-200 Jews was much less of an evil than Himmler taking the Jews and sterilizing them en masse or doing something worse to them.
Q. Mr. Brack, if I understand you correctly, you’re saying that, at that time, you had to make a decision between either killing millions of Jews or choosing the smaller evil by only suggesting this small number which you have mentioned upon whom experiments might be carried out. Is my opinion correct?
A. During my interrogations I designated this dilemma in a way by saying that this was our last way out. But, naturally, when judging these two possibilities one must take into consideration that one decides upon one possibility and, at the same time, feels an inner justification for doing so. The same way as a troop commander sacrifices a few thousand people somewhere if he can save a hundred thousand somewhere else.
Q. Now, Mr. Brack, in order to finish with this letter I want to say that you have stated the following at the end of that letter, and I quote:
“In summary it may be said that, having regard to the present state of radiological technique and research, mass sterilization by means of X-rays can be carried out without difficulty. However, it seems to be impossible to do this in such a way that the persons concerned do not, sooner or later, realize with certainty that they have been sterilized or castrated by X-rays.”
In your covering letter you apparently mentioned your second letter, and I quote:
“I request your instructions as to further theoretical or practical steps if any are to be taken in this matter.”
What is the significance of this latter statement?
A. By using this formulation I endeavored to keep control of the development of that matter. I never really counted on the realization of these experiments and I never had any intention of submitting a serious proposal to Himmler which would cause the sterilization of millions of Jews, but if Himmler was to accept this nonsensical proposal I wanted to have his idea delayed as long as possible. If this suggestion had been serious on my part I would have had to be a fanatical Jew hater, and I think I have already proved that I was not such a person.
* * * * *
[81] Trial of the Major War Criminals, International Military Tribunal, Nuremberg, 1947, vol. I, pp. 247-253.
[82] Judgment of the IMT. Ibid.
[83] Final plea is recorded in mimeographed transcript, 15 July 1947, pp. 10874-10910.
[84] Complete testimony is recorded in mimeographed transcript, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19 May 1947, pp. 7413-7772.
B. Jewish Skeleton Collection
a. Introduction
The defendants Rudolf Brandt and Sievers were charged with criminal responsibility and participation in plans and enterprises, involving the murder of civilians and members of the armed forces of nations at war with the German Reich, and specifically with the murder of 112 Jews for the purpose of completing a skeleton collection for the Reich University at Strasbourg (par. 7 of the indictment). On this charge both defendants were convicted.
The prosecution’s summation of the evidence and argumentation on the Jewish skeleton collection is contained in its closing brief against the defendant Sievers. An extract from this brief is set forth below on pages 739 to 741. A corresponding summation of the evidence by the defense has been selected from the closing brief for the defendant Sievers. It appears below on pages 741 to 747. This argumentation is followed by selections from the evidence on pages 748 to 759.
b. Selection from the Argumentation of the Prosecution
_EXTRACT FROM THE CLOSING BRIEF AGAINST DEFENDANT SIEVERS_
* * * * *
_Skeleton Collection_
In response to a request by the defendant Rudolf Brandt, on 9 February 1942, Sievers submitted to him a report by Dr. Hirt of the University of Strasbourg on the desirability of securing a collection of Jewish skeletons. (_NO-085, Pros. Ex. 175._) In this report, Hirt advocated outright murder of “Jewish Bolshevik Commissars” for the procurement of such a collection. He stated:
“By procuring the skulls of the Jewish Bolshevik Commissars, who personify a repulsive, yet characteristic subhumanity, we have the opportunity of obtaining tangible scientific evidence. The actual obtaining and collecting of these skulls _without_ difficulty could be best accomplished by a directive issued to the Wehrmacht in the future to immediately turn over alive all Jewish Bolshevik Commissars to the field police.”
These units were to report to a special office which would send out specialists to have photographs and anthropological measurements taken and ascertain the origin, birth date, and other personal data of the victims. Hirt further stated:
“Following _the subsequently induced death_ of the Jew, whose head must not be damaged, he will separate the head from the torso and will forward it to its point of destination in a preserving fluid in a well-sealed tin container especially made for this purpose. On the basis of the photos, the measurements, and other data on the head and, finally, the skull itself, comparative anatomical research, research on racial classification, pathological features of the skull formation, form and size of the brain, and many other things can begin. In accordance with its scope and tasks, the new Reich University of Strasbourg would be the most appropriate place for the collection of and research upon these skulls thus acquired.” [Emphasis supplied.]
On 27 February 1942, Brandt informed Sievers that Himmler would support Hirt’s work and would place everything necessary at his disposal. Brandt requested Sievers to inform Hirt accordingly and to report again on Hirt’s work. (_NO-090, Pros. Ex. 176._)
Hirt’s murderous and inhuman plan was carried out in a way which differed but slightly from the suggestion made in his preliminary report. (_NO-085, Pros. Ex. 175._) The proof has shown that it was decided to preserve the whole skeletons of the victims rather than merely the skulls. On 2 November 1942 Sievers requested Brandt to make the necessary arrangements with the Reich Security Main Office for providing 150 Jewish inmates from Auschwitz to carry out this plan. (_NO-086, Pros. Ex. 177._) On 6 November Brandt informed Adolf Eichmann, the Chief of Office IV-B-4 (Jewish affairs) of the Reich Security Main Office to put everything at Hirt’s disposal which was necessary for the completion of the skeleton collection. (_NO-089, Pros. Ex. 179._)
From Sievers’ letter to Eichmann of 21 June 1943, it is apparent that SS Hauptsturmfuehrer Beger, a collaborator of the Ahnenerbe Society, carried out the preliminary work for the assembling of the skeleton collection in the Auschwitz concentration camp on 79 Jews, 30 Jewesses, 2 Poles, and 4 Asiatics. In this letter, Sievers stated that Beger had to interrupt his work because of the danger of infectious diseases in the camp. Sievers requested that the inmates on whom Beger had carried out this work be transferred to the Natzweiler concentration camp because further activities in Auschwitz were impossible due to the danger of infection. Special accommodation for the thirty women was to be provided in the Natzweiler concentration camp “_for a short period_”. [Emphasis added.] (_NO-087, Pros. Ex. 181._)
The statement of the camp commandant of the Natzweiler concentration camp, SS Hauptsturmfuehrer Josef Kramer, reveals that approximately 80 inmates of the Auschwitz concentration camp, among them females, were transferred to the Natzweiler concentration camp and killed there by gas at the request of Hirt in the beginning of August 1943. A special gas chamber had been built for this purpose. The corpses of the victims were sent in three shipments to the Anatomical Institute of Hirt in Strasbourg University. (_NO-807, Pros. Ex. 185._) This evidence is corroborated by the testimony of the witness Henripierre. He testified that in the beginning of August 1943, the principal autopsy technician of the Anatomical Institute, Bong, received the order from Hirt to prepare the tanks in the cellar of the Institute for approximately 120 corpses. At intervals of a few days, three shipments of corpses, 30 female, 30 male, and 26 male, arrived by truck from an unknown place. All of these victims were Jewish. These corpses were preserved in the cellar of the Anatomical Institute in the tanks prepared by Bong. (_Tr. pp. 712-4._) See also the affidavit of Wagner. (_NO-881, Pros. Ex. 280._) As proved by the Sievers’ diary, Beger was ordered to prepare plaster casts of the victims. (_3546-PS, Pros. Ex. 123._)
Early in September 1944, when the Allied armies were threatening Strasbourg, Sievers approached the defendant Brandt with the request for instructions as to what should be done with the Jewish bodies which were still stored in the tanks in the cellar of the Anatomical Institute. He informed Brandt that Hirt would be able to “de-flesh” the corpses and thus render them unrecognizable, but in this case part of the work would have been done in vain “and it would be a great scientific loss for this _unique collection_ because casts could not be made afterwards. The skeleton collection is not conspicuous. Viscera could be declared as remnants of corpses, apparently left in the Anatomical Institute by the French and ordered to be cremated.” Sievers requested a directive from Brandt whether the collection should be preserved, partly dissolved, or completely dissolved. (_NO-088, Pros. Ex. 182._)
From the memorandum of SS Hauptsturmfuehrer Berg, and his telephone conversation with Sievers on 15 October 1944, it is apparent that it was first decided to destroy the evidence of these brutal crimes, but with a temporary improvement in the military situation, this decision was rescinded. Sievers informed Berg on 21 October 1944 that, in compliance with the orders he had received previously, the dissolution of the collection had been completed. (_NO-091, Pros. Ex. 183._) But such was not the case. Hirt had ordered Bong and his assistant, Meyer, to cut up the 86 corpses and have them cremated in the Strasbourg crematorium, but these two men alone were unable to carry out this enormous task. A number of corpses remained un-dissected and were left in the tanks, together with partially dissected corpses, in order to create the impression that they were used for normal anatomical research. (_Tr. p. 715; NO-881, Pros. Ex. 280._)
The pictures of these corpses and of the gas chambers in the Natzweiler concentration camp, where the victims of the Jewish skeleton collection were murdered, taken by the French authorities after the liberation of Strasbourg, tell the grim story of this mass murder more vividly than witnesses and documents ever could. (_NO-483, Pros. Ex. 184_; _NO-807, Pros. Ex. 185_.)
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