17 pages 34 minutes read

First They Came...

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1946

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Summary and Study Guide

Overview

“First they came…” is a quotation from Pastor Martin Niemöller’s numerous antifascist speeches, sermons, and interviews. A Holocaust survivor and cofounder of the Confessing Church, Niemöller developed the quote as a warning for non-persecuted people to intervene on behalf of the persecuted, if only to preserve themselves. Versions of the quote appear from approximately 1946 to 1979. The genre of this piece is debated, with some calling it a poem, a piece of prose, a quotation, or an anecdote.

In the post-World War II world, Niemöller emerged as an anti-authoritarian voice advocating for repentance and responsibility among institutions and people who failed to do all they possibly could to prevent the Holocaust and its atrocities. Niemöller repeatedly expresses regret for his own inaction, although his early support of the Nazi party and antisemitic comments dispute his status as an anti-authoritarian icon. “First they came…” is by far his most famous piece, with English-language versions of the quote appearing at the Holocaust memorials and museums across the United States. The tragic narrative and solemn message embody Niemöller’s philosophy and activism. He remained committed to the church throughout his life, being an instrumental figure in the postwar rebuilding efforts and holding various leadership positions and high offices.

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
Unlock Icon

Unlock all 17 pages of this Study Guide

Plus, gain access to 8,850+ more expert-written Study Guides.

Including features:

+ Mobile App
+ Printable PDF
+ Literary AI Tools