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The movement that inspired the Holocaust - Alexandra Minna Stern and Natalie Lira

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Since ancient Greece, humans have controlled populations via reproduction, retaining some traits and removing others. But in the 19th century, a new scientific movement dedicated to this endeavor emerged: eugenics. Scientists believed they could improve society by ensuring that only desirable traits were passed down. Alexandra Minna Stern and Natalie Lira detail the history of eugenics in the US.

What motivated eugenicists to pass sterilization laws starting in the early 20th century? Why did they think they could solve perceived social problems with scientific interventions?

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Meet The Creators

  • Educator Alexandra Minna Stern, Natalie Lira
  • Director Héloïse Dorsan Rachet
  • Narrator Christina Greer
  • Music Stephen LaRosa
  • Sound Designer Stephen LaRosa
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Editorial Producer Dan Kwartler
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Fact-Checker Jennifer Nam, Charles Wallace

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