Planning: Kristallnacht

TO ALL REGIONAL AND SUB-REGIONAL GESTAPO OFFICES

sent at 1:20AM, November 8, 1938

SUBJECT: MEASURES AGAINST THE JEWS THIS NIGHT 

That only such measures were to be taken that would not endanger German lives or property (e.g. the burning of synagogues was only to be carried out if there was no danger of fire spreading to the surrounding district).  Businesses and residences of Jews may be damaged but not looted. Particular care is to be paid in business sections and surrounding streets. Non-Jewish businesses are to be protected from damage under all circumstances. Police are to seize all archives from synagogues and offices of community organizations, this refers to material of historical significance. Archives are to be handed over to the SS. As soon as possible, officials are to arrest as many Jews especially wealthy ones - in all districts as can be accommodated in existing cells. For the time being, only healthy male Jews of not too advanced age are to be arrested.

Signed by Reinhard Heydrich,

SS Gruppenfürer

The following document was sent a day before the tragedy of "Kristallnacht" occurred. It's evident that the chaos of that night was planned. Showing in the depth of what was and not to be done. Showing also how anti-semitic and direct the Nazi party was in methodically attacking the "Jews"; which not only attacks the present culture but also digging and destroying its roots. This is clearly perceived through the order to seize the archives as well as material of historical significance. 

The burning and destruction of the synagogues and other establishments are evident in the text"That only such measures were to be taken that would not endanger German lives or property (e.g. the burning of synagogues was only to be carried out if there was no danger of fire spreading to the surrounding district).  Businesses and residences of Jews may be damaged but not looted." proves this. In addition to that, the planned arrests of the 'healthy male Jews' are present in the document as well. It is clear that this document, in alignment with the time, people and content is evidence that the "Kristallnacht" was planned.