In their book, Holocaust a History, Dwork and van Pelt state that, “The Holocaust was the most lethal, most geographically comprehensive genocide in the history of western civilization, and the rescuers were heroes.” (355) A hero is defined as a person that is admired for their courage. Marion Pritchard’s life was full of courage and bravery as she risked her life to save more than 125 Jews; by definition she is a hero.
Marion Pritchard, born Marion van Binsburgan, was born on November 7, 1920, in Amsterdam, Netherlands on a Sunday. Marion had only one sibling, Jan van Binsbergan, who was ten years younger than her. Her father, Jacob van Binsbergan, was a local judge in Amsterdam (Oral History Interview). All of Jacob’s family was educated in law, even the women. Jacob placed a high value on the law, but he believed that justice was even more important (Rescue/Aids Provider). Marion’s mother, Grace Marion van Binsbergan, was born and raised in England and was a devoted member of the Anglican Church. Her mother moved to the Netherlands after marrying Jacob. …show more content…
She went to elementary school from 1st through 7th grade in Amsterdam and grew up learning three languages. Her mother could not speak Dutch, so they spoke mainly English in the home. Because her father spoke Dutch, she learned to speak that as well. Marion also learned German from their maid who lived with them. Another part of her education took place in church. Marion’s father did not attend church, but Marion still went to church with her mother every week (Cargas 67). At church Marion learned to love others unconditionally. The rest of her life would be a testament to what she had
Marion Pritchard, born Marion van Binsburgan, was born on November 7, 1920, in Amsterdam, Netherlands on a Sunday. Marion had only one sibling, Jan van Binsbergan, who was ten years younger than her. Her father, Jacob van Binsbergan, was a local judge in Amsterdam (Oral History Interview). All of Jacob’s family was educated in law, even the women. Jacob placed a high value on the law, but he believed that justice was even more important (Rescue/Aids Provider). Marion’s mother, Grace Marion van Binsbergan, was born and raised in England and was a devoted member of the Anglican Church. Her mother moved to the Netherlands after marrying Jacob. …show more content…
She went to elementary school from 1st through 7th grade in Amsterdam and grew up learning three languages. Her mother could not speak Dutch, so they spoke mainly English in the home. Because her father spoke Dutch, she learned to speak that as well. Marion also learned German from their maid who lived with them. Another part of her education took place in church. Marion’s father did not attend church, but Marion still went to church with her mother every week (Cargas 67). At church Marion learned to love others unconditionally. The rest of her life would be a testament to what she had