text:
8 March 2018 5:11 pm
For this month's e-newsletter we interviewed Subodh Raj Pyakurel. Subodh is the Chairperson of the Informal Sector Service Centre (INSEC), a FORUM-ASIA member based in Nepal. He started his human rights activism back in the 1980s and was one of the founders and past Chairpersons of FORUM-ASIA.
In this interview we talk to him about his background, his ideas about human rights, his experiences, and much more.
How did you become involved with the human rights? And how did you become involved with FORUM-ASIA?
In 1988, the democratic movement in Nepal was momentous. It was the culmination of an on-going struggle for democracy since 1965. Several political leaders were imprisoned and many were even eliminated by the regime of the time, which was directly led by the king. It was a palace-controlled system, which was party-Less, in which the freedoms of expression and association were highly restricted. The King was above the Constitution.
In 1986, an organisation called the Forum for Protection of Human Rights (FOPHUR) was established. I was elected as Councillor of FOPHUR in 1988. The regime was notorious for violating fundamental rights enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). I was detained several times for opposing serious cases of killings and atrocities In Nepal. FOPHUR launched a campaign for the release of political prisoners.
When the democratic movement was at its peak in 1990, I was the Coordinator of the Nepali Congress, a Democratic Party and alliance of leftist parties, looking after party operations in the Eastern part of the country.
Nepal achieved multi-party democracy in 1990, in line with a wave of democratisation around the world. Several of us were seriously concerned about uncontrolled devastation caused by the free market economy and the structural adjustment programme induced forcefully by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. We therefore wanted to make sure that there was a responsible regime with a clearly defined target of social justice. Due to my frontline leadership in the democratic struggle, including being subject to detention, imprisonment, and other atrocities, I became well-known.
At the same time, some friends from the Philippines and Thailand were also eager to create a common forum of social justice activists to challenge the impact of uncontrolled free market policy. Hence many of our friends assembled in the Philippines and we created FORUM-ASIA. All our founders were progressive with a vision of attaining social justice and a responsible market mechanism.
What motivated you to become involved? And has that motivation changed over the years?
The challenges are similar, although some cosmetic changes have occurred. We experienced a lot of sliding back of democratic achievements in several democratic countries. War, terrorism, military coups, elected authoritarian regimes, and many other factors have been a lucrative business of warmongers. Hence, my commitment, duty, and effort remain intact as of the days of establishing FORUM-ASIA.
Please tell us one of the most inspiring moments for you in your work in the past?
In the year 2005, during FORUM-ASIA's General Assembly, several friends requested me to stand for the position of Chairperson. During those days FORUM-ASIA was struggling to overcome a severe crisis due to a conflict with Thai members who provided their bank account for our use, as FORUM-ASIA was not a registered organisation. Our accounts were ceased and there were security challenges.
After I was elected unanimously, I met with Thai members on account of my years of long association. It was the period of the Thai junta's increased interference in all state affairs.
With the support of Chalida [Tajaroensuk], I met with several military generals. At the end, we decided to establish an office in Geneva, where we got working space for free from the canton (local Government) due to our credible record of supporting human rights organisations at the United Nations.
The then Executive Director, Anselmo Lee and Adrien-Claude Zoller took the lead in arranging the establishment of our Geneva office. After obtaining the registration of FORUM-ASIA's Geneva office, I was on the move to convince the Thai authorities to approve our registration in Thailand. At last we got provisional registration in Thailand. That was the moment that was most inspiring and unforgettable to me.
What do you experience as the main challenges as someone working on human rights? And how do you deal with such obstacles in your work?
People's awareness and accountable conduct are the only thing able to influence States to make sure to human rights voices effectively heard. For me there are four pillars of the human rights mission: social Justice through democracy guided by human rights and disciplined by the rule of law.
Until human rights defenders receive due recognition by the people, their impact on society and influence on the State are relatively weak and ineffective. Our challenge is to convince the State about the importance of human rights and garner political support from formal institutions. We are working in larger coalitions of civil society and state institutions, including National Human Rights Institutions, to make that happen.
If you could give a message to the new generation of people working on human rights or development, what would it be?
Neoliberalism has been widening the gap between the rich and the poor to the extent that humanity is being eroded in the social and cultural lives of the people. Foreign powers and tycoon's joint interest have been causing devastation on ecology and sustainable development. The recent declaration of and commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals has given a new ray of hope, but the question remains how diligently the purpose will be served.
But all difficult questions have answers. People's awareness is increasing rapidly thanks to the Internet. Sufficiently universal ideas have emerged in the shape of international and domestic laws. People can measure the impact of policies quicker than before. Hence, the critical mass is growing stronger.
I am hopeful that the new generation, equipped with knowledge and tools, will create committed and effective solidarity to move the global society towards justice and equity.
'Activism Can Only Be Learnt the Hard Way' – Interview with Ruki Fernando, Advisor INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre
'The belief in love, social justice and generosity runs deep in my life'- Interview with Chalida Tajaroensuk, Executive Director of the People's Empowerment Foundation (PEF)
'I Believe in the Power of People' – Interview with Newly Elected Chair of FORUM-ASIA, Urantsooj Gombosuren
'We need to work actively as human rights defenders in the country.' – Interview with Kashif Aslam, Programme and Research Coordinator of the National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP), Pakistan


Cedar Cove Ranch has all of the amenities and space to plan a truly unique celebration. Our newly renovated charming barn - The Hitching Post and the Outdoor Ceremony Venue are both available for booking. We can host events from 25 - 200+ people at The Hitching Post and 25 to 500 people at the Outdoors Venue.
Please visit their website https://www.cedarcoveranch.com to obtain more information about their amazing services.


There was no shortage of media's elite out on the town this week. Magazine powerhouses came together to accept awards, and Soledad O'Brien stopped by AOL. Here's a look at the main events, from Los Angeles to New York.
Google Play's marketing vp Brian Irving (l.) and Rolling Stone publisher Michael Provus attended the Rolling Stone and Google Play event in Los Angeles.
Garden & Gun EIC David DiBenedetto collected the magazine's Ellie for General Excellence at the National Magazine Awards in New York.
Michael Bloomberg and Bloomberg Media CEO Justin Smith launched Bloomberg Business at the company's New York headquarters.
Live! With Kelly and Michael co-host Michael Strahan (l.) joined DirecTV chairman, president and CEO Michael White and his wife Sue at the DirecTV Super Saturday Night party.
Soledad O'Brien (l.) and HuffPost Live host Nancy Redd attended an AOL event in New York.
Glamour eic Cindi Leive celebrates her magazine's National Magazine Awards win for general excellence.
Maxim publisher Kevin Martinez along with the magazine's editor in chief, Kate Lanphear, attend the Maxim party in Phoenix, Ariz.


Put your money where the higher interest rates are. With a time deposit account, your hard-earned savings will earn higher interest than a regular deposit account. Compare time deposit interest rates today!
Q: What is a Time Deposit?
A time deposit or TD is a type of investment account, similar to a savings account, where you keep your savings for a set amount of time without withdrawing it. It has higher interest rates than a regular savings account and is considered "risk-free." Expect higher earnings via interest the longer you keep your time deposit in the bank.
Q: What do I need to take note of when opening a time deposit account?
Most financial institutions offer time deposit accounts that you must not touch for a minimum of 30 days or a maximum of 5 years and 1 day. You can request for a longer tenure if necessary.
The amount you need to open a time deposit account depends on which bank you open your account in. Some banks will require a minimum of ₱1,000 to start while others will go as high as ₱50,000 for the minimum amount. There are also banks who accept other currencies such as US Dollar, Japanese Yen, and the Euro.
You will need to pay a documentary stamp tax upon pre-termination or maturity of your deposit and withholding tax on your interest income.
The bank will charge a percentage off your interest rate as a penalty for early withdrawal or pre-termination. Also, the bank will charge you the documentary stamp tax.
Q: How is interest income computed (without pre-termination)?
Q: How much is the documentary stamp tax?
It is ₱1 for every ₱200 of your time deposit amount or a fraction thereof. This tax is charged upon maturity or pre-termination of your account. In most cases, the banks pay this tax for you if you do not make any pre-termination on your time deposit.
Q: How much is the withholding tax that I'm going to be charged on my interest income?
It is 20% for Philippine pesos and 7.5% for foreign currencies. Hence, when you receive your interest income from the bank, the withholding tax is already deducted from it. You will only receive 80% or 92.5% of your interest income, depending on the currency.
Q: What happens when I withdraw my time deposit earlier than the maturity date (pre-termination)?
You will get a penalty for early withdrawal. In other words, you will get less than the interest income you should be getting when the time deposit is allowed to mature. You will also have to pay the documentary stamp tax.
If pre-termination is within the first half of the quoted term, interest income will only be 75% of what you are supposed to be getting if you allow your time deposit to mature. If pre-termination is during the second half of the quoted term, interest income will only be 50%.
Q: Is Time Deposit worth investing money on?
If you don't tell the bank what you want to do with your money once your account matures, the bank will automatically renew your fixed deposit for a similar period at the current market rate for a deposit of that amount and time period.


The Hat Store spans about 200 hundred yards of path, and hikers can simply walk the size of it for maximum perspective. It is better to deal with it by touching the brim while you decide it up, put on it or modify it. Also make sure that your palms are all the time clean whenever you contact your hat as not to depart any mark or stain in your hat.


We partner with you to deploy turnkey store concepts.
Our experiential brands range from in-store deli concepts and upgraded produce departments to new store formats designed to meet consumer needs.
Let us help you STAND OUT	with these turnkey programs.
We've built our program around a cost plus 10% format.
So how does MDI Evolve make this program successful?
2. What resonates with current and new shoppers in your area.
3. How would you go to market with retailers that have a 52 week all in EDLP strategy.


Liverpool now boast the only unbeaten record in the Premier League – but can old rivals Man Utd end that run this weekend in the pick of the action in Gameweek 17?
There are also some huge games towards the bottom of the table as Huddersfield take on Newcastle, and Cardiff head to mid-table Watford, while new Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhüttl will be targeting a shock win over Arsenal to get his Saints career firing.
A £10 treble on these three games could return just over £106.


Work began on the new jail in the first week of October, and the Towns County Herald reported that "the walls of the lower floor are being built twenty-four inches thick of rock and concrete while the second floor wall will be twenty inches thick." One week later, the paper reported that "work on the new jail is progressing rapidly and soon the walls of the first story will be completed." In the last week of October, 1935, "workmen were pouring the concrete flooring for the second story which will be six and a half inches of steel and concrete." Work continued as weather permitted, and the Grand Jury of March 1936 was able to report that the new jail "is modern, safe, and sanitary in every respect and is very a commendable structure and improvement to our County." They also praised Ordinary Dr. J. F. Johnson "for his faithful and untiring and economical efforts used in the construction of the jail" that cost the county only $4,353.31. The jail works, including a cell patented in 1901, were moved from the former jail and still remain in the Old Rock Jail.
The Old Rock Jail functioned as the county jail from 1936 to the early 1970s when a new jail was constructed. In 1980, the building was renovated and used by the City of Hiawassee as a City Hall. Since that time, the building has been used for various purposes. In 1985, the Old Rock Jail was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
 Grand Jury Presentments, September Term 1934, Superior Court Minute Book E, page 99.
 The Towns County Herald, March 28, 1935.
 The Towns County Herald, April 4, 1935.
 The Towns County Herald, October 10, 1935.
 The Towns County Herald, October 17, 1935.
 The Towns County Herald, October 31, 1935.
 Grand Jury Presentments, March 1936, Superior Court Minute Book E, page 143-144.
 Report for inclusion on the National Register.


text:
Source Collection: Analyzing Historic Churches in the Southwestern US
Today, the US-Mexico border stretches along the path of the Rio Grande River. However, much of the territory that now makes up the Southwestern states of the US once belonged to the Spanish Crown. Studying the historic churches of Texas helps reveal this history.
French Renaissance Paleography
This website is a compilation of manuscripts from France through 1300 to 1700, which come from a variety of sources, such as legal documents, contracts, or calligraphy books.
Travels Through Greco-Roman Antiquity
This website is an excellent primer into ancient Greek and Roman places and events, with references to other sources and maps that may aid in reconstructions of the area.
Paris Past and Present
This site works as a supplement to classroom discussions about urban architecture in medieval France, or even for [those] who want to see visual reconstructions of the historical buildings.
The Abolition of Slavery Project
By breaking up the site into different areas of focus, such as enslavement itself and abolition, it allows itself to be easily navigable by students and scholars alike.
The Letters of Marie Mancini
The site's great strengths currently lie in its annotated translations and ease of use, with the team having obviously given some thought to how users might want to explore these letters.
Short Teaching Module: The Forgotten Beirut-based Companies in the Global History of Capitalism
The history of capitalism has traditionally centered Europe, but the reality is that globalization and exchange has been shaped by actors from around the world.
"The Money Market" Article
The London Evening Standard reported in 1881 that one transaction from the Sursuq (Sursock) and Debbas families caused the French stock market to decline. The Levantine companies had accumulated significant capital from silk and futures trading throughout the mid-nineteenth century.
Section of "The Bubbles of Finance"
Malcolm Ronald Laing Meason was a famous journalist and book author. As a respected authority on trade and finance, he possessed insider knowledge that journalists of articles like "Islam on the Ebb" did not. In 1865 he witnessed the Levantine companies becoming wealthy from trading in futures.
Ginger bread recipe
This late-seventeenth century recipe for gingerbread shows how colonization in the Atlantic world changed what men and women in England would have eaten. The recipe includes ginger and sugar.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Q: Problem 4 from Section E of Chapter 12 of Pinter's Book of Abstract Algebra The question: Let $f: A\rightarrow B$ be a function, and let $\{ B_i : i \in I\}$ be a partition of $B$. Prove that $\{f^{-1}(B_i):i \in I\}$ is a partition of $A$.
My work so far: For any given $B_i \in \{ B_i : i \in I\}$, the symbol $f^{-1}(B_i)$ denotes the preimage of $B_i$. The preimage of $B_i$ is the set $\{x \in A: f(x) \in B_i\}$. Since $\{B_i : i \in I\}$ is a partition of $B$, each $b \in B$ belongs to exactly one $B_i$. Also, because $f:A \rightarrow B$ is a function, if $x \in A$ then $f(x) \in B$. Thus if $x \in A$ then $f(x) \in B_i$ for exactly one $B_i$.
What I need help with:
In order to complete the proof, I still need to show that each $f^{-1}(B_i)$ is nonempty. This seems impossible to me, because if you have a $B_i$ whose elements are all outside the image set of $A$ then the preimage of $B_i$ would be the empty set. The problem does not say that $f$ must be surjective, so I don't think that can be assumed either. So, this leads me to believe that I am wrong in assuming that $f^{-1}(B_i)$ refers to the preimage of $B_i$. Am I indeed wrong? If so, what does $f^{-1}(B_i)$ mean? If not, how can I prove that all $f^{-1}(B_i)$ are nonempty?

A: I think Pinter got sloppy here.  You do get pairwise disjoint subsets of $A$ whose union is all of $A$, but not all of those are non-empty.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Norse Rune code cracked
A scholar of the University of Oslo has cracked one of the rune codes used by the Vikings, revealing they were sending each other messages such as 'Kiss me'.
K. Jonas Nordby, a runologist doing his PhD research, was able to discover the secret behind the jötunvillur code, which can be found in nine of the eighty Norse inscriptions that contain code. He found that on a stick from the 13th century two men, Sigurd and Lavrans, carved their names both in code and in standard runes. For the jötunvillur code, one would replace the original runic character with the last sound of the rune name. For example, the rune for 'f', pronounced fe, would be turned into an 'e', while the rune for 'k', pronounced kaun, became 'n'.
"It's like solving a puzzle," said Nordby to the Norwegian website forskning.no. "Gradually I began to see a pattern in what was apparently meaningless combinations of runes."
However, those thinking that the coded runes will reveal deep secrets of the Norse will be disappointed. The messages found so far seem to be either used in learning or have a playful tone. In one case the message was 'Kiss me'. Nordby explains "We have little reason to believe that rune codes should hide sensitive messages, people often wrote short everyday messages."
In many instances those who wrote the coded runes also left comments urging the readers to try to figure it out. Sometimes they would also boast of their abilities at writing the codes.
There are several kinds of Norse rune codes, some of which have been solved, while others remain a mystery. In article published last year in Futhark: International Journal of Runic Studies, Nordby writes that in some cases there is not enough information to piece together what the code could be.
But equally often an inscription may be complete and as clear as day, and yet make no sense. In many examples of the latter type the trained eye will spot the hand of a total illiterate scribbling rune-like symbols, or an unsteady and untrained writer trying to copy a runic text without any understanding of what it says. The most difficult cases to give up on are those that yield no sense even though the runes are well executed and the carving apparently secure. In an attempt to find a solution the dedicated runologist will try everything, viewing the inscription from all conceivable angles.
Nordby hopes that his new discovery will help other runologists. "We still know very little about the use of runic codes, so each new piece of information is important. My finding means we might have to look at reading and writing runes in a new way. This may help us in understanding how the runic knowledge was conveyed," he says.
Click here to read K. Jonas Nordby's article Ráð þat, If You Can! from Futhark: International Journal of Runic Studies
Click here to read the Norwegian article Løser vikingenes runekoder from forskning.no
TagsLanguages in the Middle Ages • Norse • Old Norse • Runes • Vikings


text:
Nets' win puts old 76ers in class of their own
Tuesday, March 30, 2010, 12:22 AM
The Nets were determined to make sure they wouldn't own or share the worst record in NBA history. Their desire and belief paid off last night against an unlikely foe.
Most people penciled in this game against the Spurs as another Nets' loss, meaning the Suns on Wednesday, or maybe the Hornets on Saturday, but more than likely the Wizards on Sunday, would be the game win No. 10 was reached.
But the Nets didn't want to wait and put more pressure on themselves. They got the Spurs on a night they were ripe for the taking and played a terrific fourth quarter on both ends to nab a 90-84 victory that enabled the Nets to show their faces in public again.
No longer will the Nets be mentioned as the worst team in NBA history, although one of the worst, record-wise, will follow them.
There are plenty of reasons for that. This team should not be the worst in the NBA, and if they keep playing the way they have over the past four games -– three of them wins –- they very well could avoid that as well. Minnesota, a really bad team, is just four games ahead of the Nets. And now the Nets have their sights set on catching the T-Wolves.
For now, though, the Nets should enjoy this, even thought they tried to downplay it afterward. The most exuberant person was the overly excited PA announcer, screaming "We got 10," and doing an imitation of John Sterling, only substituting "Nets" for "Yankees."
The Nets were relieved but matter of fact because they know they're better than 10-64, and they didn't want to overdo it for 10 wins. If they were healthy the whole season and Lawrence Frank hadn't been fired, the Nets would be much better than that. They weren't playoff caliber by any means, but they shouldn't have been chasing the 9-73 1972-73 Philadelphia 76ers all season.
"That wasn't a goal of ours, but it became our reality, and we got that monkey off our back," Keyon Dooling said.
The Nets did it by winning three of the past four games, by not folding in the second half and actually lifting their play in crunch time. They did it because, in those three wins, Brook Lopez was the best player on the floor, even last night when he shared the court with Tim Duncan. They did it because Devin Harris was in control and running the team beautifully with 30 assists to just seven turnovers. And the Nets did it because they wanted to do it before it got too late. They didn't want to wait until Washington and beyond, because then the pressure could really have gotten to them.
"I thought we just played very, very hard," interim coach Kiki Vandeweghe said. "We talked about it before the game, right now we're playing for pride. Step up and get in there and fight as hard as you can. That's what I think they did."
It's one thing to do it against the Kings and the Pistons, and another to do it against the Spurs. San Antonio was missing key players –- Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili –- but they still had Duncan. Duncan looked tired, though, and was ineffective, missing nine shots, three free throws and matching the Nets with four turnovers, including the biggest one with 7.9 seconds left and San Antonio down three.
Duncan threw a pass intended for George Hill out of bounds with Courtney Lee defending. Lee said he gave a "Jersey Shore" fist pump after the ball went out of bounds.
"It's a big relief," Lee said. "Now we can go out and ball now and go out and play."
The chase is over. The futility record stays in the Sixers' hands. Now the Nets are chasing Minnesota.
Al Iannazzone covers the Nets for The Record (Bergen County, N.J.)
Brook Lopez, Courtney Lee, Devin Harris, Kiki Vandeweghe, Lawrence Frank, nets , tim duncan
Nets still have time ...
The Nets made Williams happy and will be able to keep him beyond this season. We're talking about Shawne Williams, not Deron. ... more
As camp starts, Nets ...
So much for the circus-atmosphere general manager Billy King said the Nets would avoid this year. Can't wait to see what happens ... more
Almost closing time ...
Avery Johnson joked that when the time comes for the Nets to get something done with free agents, he's like Mariano ... more
Deron wants to stay, ...
Deron Williams is doing everything he can to put the Nets and their general manager Billy King at ease. But Williams also is letting ... more
Pressing matters facing the Nets


Sorry, you missed Appy Hour: Text/Chat Apps at Millbrae Library.
You missed Appy Hour: Text/Chat Apps at Millbrae Library.
We're generating custom event recommendations for you based on Appy Hour: Text/Chat Apps right now!


text:
#AFI, American Film Institute
AMERICAN FILM INSTITUTE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AMC NETWORKS ANNOUNCES THE BLACK PRODUCTION FUND
October 16, 2020 HollywoodGlee Leave a comment
Fund Supports Thesis Productions By Black Fellows At AFI Conservatory
AFI Alumni Award Winners Revealed
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Los Angeles, CA, October 16, 2020 – The American Film Institute (AFI) announced today the establishment of the Black Production Fund in partnership with AMC Networks. The fund will provide grants for thesis productions by Black Fellows in their second year at the AFI Conservatory. The Black Production Fund, along with the recently announced Thomas P. Pollock Endowed Scholarship for promising diverse AFI Producing Fellows, is part of AFI's Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Initiatives dedicated to increasing Black voices in storytelling.
"At this pivotal moment in America's history, the revolutionary power of visual storytelling to inspire change has never been more critical – and there is no better way to support underrepresented voices than to help fund the films they make to tell their own stories," said Susan Ruskin, Dean of the AFI Conservatory and EVP of the American Film Institute. "This support for our Fellows with their thesis films is transformational. We want to thank AMC Networks for their leadership in creating opportunities for Black storytellers."
Beyond the fund, AMC Networks has committed to distributing select AFI Conservatory films on UMC, AMC Networks' streaming VOD platform exclusively dedicated to showcasing Black film and television, beginning with THE FIRST STONE, directed by Kaisan Rei (AFI Class of 2016); GUMMI BEAR, directed by RJ Dawson (AFI Class of 2019); and YELLOW GIRL AND ME, directed and written by Isabella Issa (AFI Class of 2019).
"AMC Networks is proud to support the Black Production Fund – a vehicle to break down barriers for Black artists to tell stories that build a more inclusive culture," said Josh Sapan, CEO of AMC Networks. "With UMC, we are also proud to provide a home to showcase some of these outstanding projects."
In its continuing efforts to honor excellence in the art of the moving image, AFI also awarded the AFI Alumni Awards, which recognize outstanding achievement in directing and screenwriting, to members of the Class of 2019 during a private virtual alumni reception at this year's AFI FEST presented by Audi.
The William J. Fadiman Award for Screenwriting ($15,000) went to Christina Kingsleigh Licud for her screenplay "The Daughters." The Richard P. Rogers Spirit of Excellence Award ($10,000) was awarded to Isabella Issa for her thesis film YELLOW GIRL AND ME; and The Franklin J. Schaffner Fellow Award for Directing ($20,000) went to Haohao Yan for her thesis film THE SPEECH. The first Thomas P. Pollock Fellows, Haley Beasley (Producing, Class of 2022) and Nagee Brown (Producing, Class of 2022), were also feted at the reception.
About the American Film Institute (AFI)
Established in 1967, the American Film Institute is the nation's non-profit organization dedicated to educating and inspiring artists and audiences through initiatives that champion the past, present and future of the moving image. AFI's pioneering programs include filmmaker training at the AFI Conservatory; year-round exhibition at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center and at AFI Festivals across the nation; workshops aimed at increasing diversity in the storytelling community; honoring today's masters through the AFI Life Achievement Award and AFI AWARDS; and scholarly efforts such as the AFI Catalog of Feature Films that uphold film history for future generations. Read about all of these programs and more at AFI.com and follow us on social media
at Facebook.com/AmericanFilmInstitute, YouTube.com/AFI, Twitter.com/AmericanFilm, and Instagram.com/AmericanFilmInstitute.
About the AFI Conservatory
The AFI Conservatory opened its doors in 1969 to an inaugural class that included Terrence Malick, Caleb Deschanel and Paul Schrader. Today, the Conservatory offers a two-year MFA degree in six filmmaking disciplines: Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Producing, Production Design, and Screenwriting. In a collaborative production environment, AFI Fellows learn to master the art of storytelling, collectively creating up to 175 films a year. Fellows actively participate in the entire life cycle of a film, from development through production and exhibition.
Alumni of this elite program, ranging from modern masters to bold new voices defining the state of the art form, including Andrea Arnold, Darren Aronofsky, Ari Aster, Sam Esmail, Brad Falchuk, Liz Hannah, Patty Jenkins, Janusz Kamiński, Matthew Libatique, David Lynch, Melina Matsoukas, Polly Morgan, Rachel Morrison, and Wally Pfister, among others.
About the AFI Alumni Awards
The William J. Fadiman Award recognizes outstanding achievement in screenwriting in honor of the distinguished story editor and AFI Conservatory faculty member, William J. Fadiman (THE LAST FRONTIER).
The Richard P. Rogers Spirit of Excellence Award is given annually to directors whose performance at AFI embodies the independent filmmaking spirit of celebrated documentarian Richard P. Rogers (PICTURES FROM A REVOLUTION), filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend who passed away on July 14, 2001 at the age of 57. The William J. Fadiman Award and the Richard P. Rogers Spirit of Excellence Award were established by an alumnus who has chosen to give back to AFI in honor of those who have inspired generations of AFI Conservatory Fellows.
The Franklin J. Schaffner Fellow Award is presented to an exceptional Directing alum in memory of Franklin J. Schaffner (PATTON, PLANET OF THE APES), a longtime champion of AFI and former chair of the AFI Conservatory Advisory Committee. The Schaffner Fellow Award was established in 1991 by Jean Schaffner to celebrate her husband's creative legacy and dedication to fostering new talent. This award is funded by the Franklin and Jean Schaffner Foundation.
About AMC Networks
Known for its groundbreaking and celebrated original content, AMC Networks (NASDAQ:AMCX) is the company behind the award-winning brands AMC, BBC AMERICA, IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv, and IFC Films. Its diverse line-up of popular and critically-acclaimed series and independent films include Killing Eve, Better Call Saul and The Walking Dead, which has been the #1 show on ad-supported cable television for ten consecutive years, as well as Documentary Now!, Brockmire, Love After Lockup, and the films Boyhood, Death of Stalin, and many more. Its original series Mad Men and Breaking Bad are widely recognized as being among the most influential and acclaimed shows in the history of TV. The Company also operates AMC Studios, its production business; AMC Networks International, its international programming business; the subscription streaming services Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, and UMC; RLJE Films; and Levity Entertainment Group, the Company's production services and comedy venues business. For more information, visit http://www.amcnetworks.com.
(Source: AFI Press release)
AMERICAN FILM INSTITUTE NAMES SYREETA N. GREENE NEW DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
In "#AFI"
AFI AWARDS 2020 HONOREES ANNOUNCED
American Film Institute Kicks Off 50th Anniversary at AFI Conservatory 2017 Commencement
Previous PostAFI FEST PRESENTED BY AUDI ANNOUNCES FILMMAKER FOCUS FEATURING EXTENDED CLIPS FROM THREE OF THE YEAR'S MOST ANTICIPATED TITLESNext PostAFI FEST PRESENTED BY AUDI ANNOUNCES ENCORE SCREENING OF THE AMAZON ORIGINAL I'M YOUR WOMAN ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22


text:
History of Ireland: a free 4-week online course
Book of Kells, Folio 27v, with the four evangelists:
(Clockwise from top left): a man (Matthew), a lion
(Mark), an eagle (John) and an ox (Luke).
Public Domain via Wikipedia
A new, free, online course exploring the history of Ireland through the Book of Kells, one of the world's most famous and beautiful medieval manuscripts, has been developed by Trinity College Dublin.
Designed by academics from the School of Histories and Humanities, the School of Religion and staff from the Library, it uses the Book of Kells as a means to explore the landscape, history, theology, and politics of early medieval Ireland and examine how that past is understood in modern Ireland.
The ninth-century Book of Kells, with its lavishly decorated pages retelling (in Latin) the four gospels, is one of Ireland's greatest cultural treasures. The quality of the book's artwork and the number of illustrations that run throughout its 680 pages set it apart from other manuscripts dating from the same period.
The Book of Kells: Exploring an Irish Medieval Masterpiece course will be run in partnership with FutureLearn, The Open University's online learning platform, and will give members of the public the opportunity to learn more about this precious manuscript through a four-week course.
The course, which starts on Monday 8 October, is aimed at anyone with an interest in Ireland, medieval studies, history, art, religion and popular culture.
Irish Census: progress report on corrections project
'MyRecords' lock-out for lapsed FindMyPast customers
Emigration from Sligo Port - a new film at County ...
All under one roof: new home for Co. Wicklow's Arc...
Mapping Laois, from the 16th- to the 21st-century
Irish family history and heritage events, 24 Sep -...
Baltimore registers debut in FindMyPast's Catholic...
Maynooth Studies in Local History: 2018 volumes
National Archives of Ireland: October closures
10% discount for returning FindMyPast customers
Irish Registry of Deeds Index Project: latest update
North of Ireland FH Society launches 11th branch
Clare County Library: latest Local Studies additions
Irish family history & heritage events, 17-30 Sept...
Ireland Genealogy Projects Archives: mid-Sept update
Irish family history courses starting this autumn
Presbyterian Historical Society of Ireland's Libra...
Ancestry DNA rolls out enhanced ethnicity estimates
NEHGS: Latest additions to MA Catholic registers
New customers only: 30% off ANY FindMyPast package
Church of Ireland parish registers to be digitised
Irish genealogy, history & heritage, 10-23 September
FindMyPast is offering free access this weekend
Genetic Genealogy Ireland conference, Dublin, 2018
Clare Library adds RC records for Kilfenora parish
National Library publishes Annual Review 2017
25% discount on annual subs to RootsIreland.ie
Wine, genealogy and cross-dressing: History Ireland
Ireland Genealogy Projects Archives: End Aug. update
Irish genealogy and history events, 3-16 September


Rome Review began in 2005 with great ambition: it would be THE website for any and all English-speakers wishing to know about Rome about anything. But, by 2013, the section dedicated to movies and cinema in English (and other original languages) had become its most popular feature and we decided to make that our primary focus.
Now, in March 2015, ten years (and a week) after the launch of the original website, we are proud to present the new Rome Review.
We hope you will find it to be a great improvement, especially for those visiting us on tablets and mobile platforms.
If you have any comments or ideas on how Rome Review could develop in the future, please post it below.
Our sincere thanks to all of you who have followed us over the years. And a special thanks to the cinemas that have consistently shared with us weekly their programming; because of this we are one of the most reliable sources for cinema and movies in English and other original languages in Rome.
Hey! Welcome back Rome Review. Love the new focus and format.


text:
Polignacové je starobylý francouzský šlechtický rod, který nese jméno podle zámku Polignac, kde Polignacové seděli od dob Karla Velikého.

V roce 1385 rod vymřel po meči, ale dědička se provdala za Viléma de Chalancon, který převzal jméno a erb Polignaců. Jules de Polignac (1746–1817) se stal v roce 1780 prvním vévodou z Polignacu.

Významní členové rodu

 Melchior de Polignac (1661–1742), francouzský diplomat, kardinál a novolatinský básník
 Jules de Polignac (1746–1817), první vévoda z Polignacu
 Gabrielle de Polastron, vévodkyně de Polignac (1749–1793), manželka prvního vévody z Polignacu
 Jules, princ de Polignac (1780–1847), francouzský politik
 Alphonse de Polignac (1826–1863), francouzský matematik a teoretik čísel
 Camille Armand Jules Marie, princ de Polignac (1832–1913), konfederační generál v americké občanské válce
 Edmond de Polignac (1834–1901), hudební skladatel
 Winnaretta Singerová, princezna de Polignac (1865–1943), americko-francouzská mecenáška
 Pierre de Polignac (1895–1964), otec Rainiera III. Monackého

Odkazy

Reference

Externí odkazy

Francouzské šlechtické rody

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Vietnam Veterans Of America Denounces Trump For Not Letting McCain 'Rest In Peace'
The Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), one of America's largest veteran groups, broke its silence on Thursday after President Trump continued to attack the late Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), blasting his "inability to let a fellow Vietnam veteran rest in peace."
"We are chagrined by the President's inability to let a fellow Vietnam veteran rest in peace," VVA National President John Rowan wrote in the letter. "Mr. Trump, it's time to move on. Help us heal our Nation and honor those who have served and sacrificed."
Vietnam Veterans of America to President Trump: Help us Heal our Nation
Statement by Vietnam Veterans of America National President John Rowan: On the eve of Vietnam Veterans Day, March 29, we are… https://t.co/zOiHueJHtx
— VVA (@VVAmerica) March 21, 2019
The letter, which did not mention McCain by name, noted the timing of Trump's criticism ahead of National Vietnam War Veterans Day, March 29.
During a speech in Lima, Ohio, on Wednesday, Trump complained that he did not "get a thank you" for approving McCain's funeral.
"I gave him the kind of funeral that he wanted, which as president, I had to approve," he told a crowd at a campaign-style speech in Ohio. "I don't care about this, I didn't get 'thank you' that's OK. We sent him on the way, but I wasn't a fan of John McCain."
The Washington National Cathedral on Thursday disputed Trump's claim that he had to "approve" the funeral.
"Washington National Cathedral was honored to host the funeral service for Senator John McCain," a cathedral spokesperson said in a statement to The Hill on Thursday. "All funerals and memorial services at the Cathedral are organized by the family of the deceased; only a state funeral for a former president involves consultation with government officials."
"No funeral at the Cathedral requires the approval of the president or any other government official," he added.
McCain died last August from an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Related Topics:Donald Trump, john mccain, vietnam
President Donald Trump on Monday managed to turn a tweet mentioning Martin Luther King Jr. Day...
'You Don't Grow Out Of Them': Vietnam Veteran Ex-Senator Demands Trump 'Show Us Your Bone Spurs!'
Trump Attacks McCain As 'Horrible,' Ignoring Veterans, McCain Family's Pleas For Him To Stop


text:
Q: Javascript scope and variables var name = "Bob";

var book = {
    name: "Harry Potter",
    writeName: function() {
        return function() {
            document.writeln(this.book.name);
        }
    }
};

When I call this
book.writeName()();

I want it to print Harry Potter (not Bob) which it does above, however this:
var book2 = book;
book = null;
book2.writeName()();

Now looks for this.book (which is null) where it should be looking for this.book2
How can I reference the variable?

A: What you need here is a variable in the writeName closure:
var book = {
    name: "Harry Potter",
    writeName: function() {
        var name = this.name; // turn dynamic property into closure variable
        return function() {
            document.writeln(name);
        }
    }
};
book.writeName()(); // Harry Potter

Instead of storing only the name in the closure, you also could store a reference to the object like in @Quentin's answer. It might make a difference if you plan to change the .name property before calling the returned function.
For the question whether to use this or book for referencing your object see Javascript: Object Literal reference in own key's function instead of 'this'.

A: Since you are returning a function, you are going to lose whatever context you got from calling the function that generates it.
You need that context to reference the object, so you need to preserve it.
writeName: function() {
    var myBook = this;

You then need to use that preserved context:
    return function() {
        document.writeln(myBook.name);
    }

A: try this :  http://jsbin.com/pagumiwi/4/edit
var name = "Bob";

var book = {
    name: "Harry Potter",
    writeName: function() {
        return function() {
            document.writeln(this.name);
        }
      }()
    };

book.writeName(); //would also work
var book2 = book;
book = null;
book2.writeName(); //would also work

A: Because this changes when the context changes you need to save a reference to the original this. Here I've used _this
var book = {
  name: "Harry Potter",
  writeName: function() {
    var _this = this;
    return function() {
      console.log(_this.name);
    }
  }
};

book.writeName()() //  Harry Potter

var book2 = book;
book = null;
book2.writeName()();  //  Harry Potter

Demo


text:
MEDEA Awards 2023
14 janvier 2019 4 janvier 2023
The aim of the MEDEA Awards is to encourage innovation and good practice in the use of media (audio, video, graphics and animation) in education. The awards also recognise and promote excellence in the production and pedagogical design of media-rich learning productions, resources, processes and services.
From 2015 onwards, the MEDEA Awards are supported by the Media & Learning Association.
The MEDEA Award for Best Educational Media.
This award will be awarded to the best educational media, resource, tool, or service produced in all sectors and at all levels of education and training.
The Special MEDEA Jury Prize
The judges may, at their discretion, present a special award to an approach or production in recognition of exceptional innovation in pedagogic or technical design.
Entries should demonstrate exceptional use of multimedia in a learning setting including videos, audios, simulations, applications, podcasts, vlogs, animations, and any other excellent use of educational multimedia. Entries are welcome from students, teachers, schools, production facilities, universities, training companies, agencies, and anyone else working on the creation and use of educational multimedia.
Concent can include all possible subject matter.
Participants can submit up to 12 entries
Any multimedia material must have been created after 1st January 2020. Of course, the entry may include or consist of older material.
Deadline: entries need to be submitted before 17 March 2023, (midnight) CET.
All finalists will be notified by May 2023 and will be invited to take part in the Awards Ceremony taking place iduring the Media and Learning Conference in June 2022, in Leuven, Belgium, where the final winners will be announced.
Find out more: http://www.medea-awards.com


Spitting is a form of physical humiliation which involves a dominant spitting in the face or in the mouth of a submissive. This is often also done in public as a form of public humiliation.
Any submissive would be honored to have Me spit on their face, and I often make My slaves beg for Me to spit into their mouths.
Craving to be looking up at Me, begging for My spit? Apply for a session here.


Barack Obama 'selfie': who is Helle Thorning-Schmidt?
Helle Thorning-Schmidt, the Danish prime minister, has become an internet sensation after she took a 'selfie' of herself with President Barack Obama and David Cameron at the Nelson Mandela memorial on Tuesday.
The trio were pictured leaning in to Mrs Thorning-Schmidt's smartphone to take a photograph shortly after Mr Obama delivered his rousing speech to the FNB stadium in Soweto.
Mrs Thorning-Schmidt spoke to Danish Berlingske newspaper to defend her actions, saying: "The atmosphere was of course melancholic, but ultimately it was a celebration of a man who lived to be 95 years old, and who managed to accomplish so much in his life.
"There was dancing on the stands and singing and dancing, so the mood was positive. And then we took a really fun selfie."
Mrs Thorning-Schmidt won the 2011 election, becoming the first woman to have held the role.
The 46-year-old, who leads the Social Democrat government, is married to Stephen Kinnock - son of ex-Labour leader, Neil Kinnock.
She leads a coalition of the Social Democrats, (her own party) the Socialist People's Party and the Danish Social Liberal Party.
Prior to her appointment of leader of the Social Democratic Party, she served in the European Parliament from 1999 to 2004.
She has met Mr Obama on a number of occasions, including a visit to the White House in 2012. In September, Mr Obama met her during a visit to Stockholm.
Dubbed by one of her colleagues as "Gucci Helle" for her taste for designer clothes, she has faced criticism over her stylish appearance.
She once responded at a party meeting "We can't all look like s---."
At the age of 26, she joined the Social Democrat party, after completing a degree in political science from the University of Copenhagen and working as a consultant for the Danish Confederation of Trade Unions.
She met husband Stephen while she was studying at the European College in Bruges. They wed in 2006 and have two daughters together. The couple were investigated in 2010 over allegations of tax avoidance. They were both later cleared.


1983 Senate Bill 0701. An Act Subsidizing Elderly Over Age 65 To Maintain Ownership Of Their Homes.
Title 1983 Senate Bill 0701. An Act Subsidizing Elderly Over Age 65 To Maintain Ownership Of Their Homes.


Shriners Hospitals for Children is a public elementary school located in Houston, TX in the University of Texas University Charter School District. It enrolls 5 students in grades 1st through 12th. Shriners Hospitals for Children is the 4,792nd largest public school in Texas and the 56,211th largest nationally. It has 5.0 students to every teacher.
The form below lets you find Shriners Hospitals for Children alumni info and Shriners Hospitals for Children students.


Shawn Custis is the owner of Columbia Financial Services, a full service residential real estate mortgage company. Shawn also owns multiple single family homes and owns a commercial building in Loveland Ohio called the Art Studio.
Shawn is married to Chandra Custis and has a 9 year old son Dane. They live in Loveland Ohio.
Columbia financial does traditional real estate mortgages and refinances.
Shawn brings to the mortgage business over 20 years of experience of financing and direct involvement in real estate.


text:
Assembled a team of best-in-class clinicians passionate about early childhood education.
Helping families is our priority
Support from the start.
All parents need a village. We are there for you from the earliest onset of concerns, and remain with you throughout the journey.
A whole-family approach.
In addition to building whole-family care into our model, we make sure you always have a trusted support system within Clay.
Compassionate care.
Our support meets you where you are. We believe in your family's resilience, evolution, and growth.
Our mission is personal.
We are parents. We get it. The late hours asking "What do I do?" and feeling completely overwhelmed and alone in how to move forward. This is what drove us to build Clay.
At Clay, we are a team of best-in-class pediatric specialists with one shared goal: to change the way the world deals with behavioral and mental health.
If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988. 988 connects you with a trained crisis counselor who can help. You can also call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Clay © 2023 All rights reserved


The Marine Life Field Guide, second edition, is a visual reference guide introducing the deep-sea creatures of the north-east Pacific Ocean. These species—some newly discovered or little-known—are observed through cameras installed on the Ocean Networks Canada subsea observatories, as well as during semi-annual expeditions. Undersea videos are captured by remotely-operated vehicles (ROVs) diving to almost three kilometres below the ocean surface, where lifeforms thrive in complete darkness.


text:
Witnesses of Boris Nemtsov's assassination to solve his murder
Officials with the Russian Interior Ministry said that several individuals witnessed the murder of prominent politician Boris Nemtsov, who served as First Deputy Prime Minister during the 1990s.
"There are witnesses, but it is in the interests of the investigation not to disclose any details at the moment," Interior Ministry spokeswoman Elena Alexeeva told Russia 24.
The former head of the Federal Security Service, State Duma deputy Nikolai Kovalyov, believes that chances to disclose the murder of opposition leader Boris Nemtsov are high."
"This is a rare case when a witness to the murder was next to the victim. Such things usually do not happen in contract killings," Kovalev told Interfax.
When asked about chances to disclose the murder, the FSB former head said: "In general, assassinations are very hard to disclose in any country of the world, and most of them still remain unsolved."
However, he added, "it may seem strange and paradoxical, but Russia has the highest percentage in solving such killings, if one looks at global statistics," Pravda.Ru says.
Boris Nemtsov, was shot dead on Saturday night in the center of Moscow on the Bolshoy Moskvoretsky Bridge (the bridge across the Moskva River). Unidentified individuals shot at the opposition activist at least seven or eight times from a vehicle, while passing him by. Nemtsov's colleagues believe that the murder was politically motivated.
Boris Nemtsov will be buried at the Troekurov Cemetery on Tuesday.
Pravda.Ru


text:
Rhode Island - School nurse qualifications: Staff qualifications and professional development
Staff Qualifications And Professional Development
statute; regulation
State law requires or recommends that all school nurses be properly certified by the state.
State of Rhode Island General Laws § 16-21-8. Certified nurse-teacher.
Each school system shall employ certified nurse-teacher personnel certified by the state department of elementary and secondary education; provided, however, that this section shall not apply to those school districts which are currently allowed to share certified nurse-teacher personnel by the department of elementary and secondary education. The school health program as defined in § 16-21-7 shall only be staffed by certified personnel.
State of Rhode Island General Laws § 16-21-7. School health.
(a) All schools that are approved for the purpose of §§ 16-19-1 and 16-19-2 shall have a school health program that shall be approved by the state director of the department of health and the commissioner of elementary and secondary education or the commissioner of higher education, as appropriate. The program shall provide for the organized direction and supervision of a healthful school environment, health education, and services. The program shall include and provide, within and consistent with existing school facilities, for the administration of nursing care by certified nurse teachers, as defined in § 16-21-8, as shall be requested, in writing, by the attending physician of any student and authorized, in writing, by the parent or legal guardian of the student. No instruction in the characteristics, symptoms, and the treatment of disease shall be given to any child whose parent or guardian shall present a written statement signed by them stating that the instructions should not be given the child because of religious beliefs.
Rules and Regulations for School Health Programs
Section 2.0 General Requirements
2.3 Each community, school district and appropriate non-public school authority (e.g., the superintendent, the headmaster, or the principal) shall be responsible to provide an adequate number of personnel for a school health program (health education, health services and environmental health) in accordance with the statutory requirements and the requirements of these Regulations.
2.3.1 Such personnel shall include no less than a school physician, dentist, certified school nurse-teacher and personnel as set forth in §3.3 of these Regulations.
[Inactive as of July 2018.]
Source: Rhode Island Secretary of State
Section 8.0 School Personnel
8.3 Certified school nurse-teacher personnel shall be certified by the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and licensed as registered nurses in accordance with § 1.7 of these Regulations.
State of Rhode Island General Laws
State of Rhode Island General Assembly


This is a placeholder page for Taylor Bryan, which means this person is not currently on this site. We do suggest using the tools below to find Taylor Bryan.
You are visiting the placeholder page for Taylor Bryan. This page is here because someone used our placeholder utility to look for Taylor Bryan. We created this page automatically in hopes Taylor Bryan would find it. If you are not Taylor Bryan, but are an alumni of East Duplin High School, register on this site for free now.


text:
Suspects sought after man shot, killed at Bellevue apartment complex
by: Alicia Patton
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) – Metro police are searching for two men who are believed to be responsible for a deadly shooting that occurred at an apartment complex in Bellevue.
Officers said the shooting occurred Monday afternoon at the Aventura apartment complex located on Amberwood Circle.
According to Metro police, the motive for the deadly shooting is suspected to be the result of a drug-related robbery.
Metro police investigating two same day burglaries in Bellevue
Preliminary investigations show that two men broke into Daniel Bonner's ,22, apartment and demanded money and drugs.
Metro police said Bonner was inside a bedroom and is believed to have retrieved a gun after the robbers entered, which resulted in him being shot.
Officials say the suspects fled the scene after taking items from the apartment. Bonner was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he died shortly after arrival.
CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee
Detectives are pursuing strong leads in the case. Anyone with information with information on the identities of the two suspects is asked to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.
No other information was immediately released.


text:
Home/EUROPE/All European shades of ISIL colour black: Neonazism of Europe and Fascism in the Arab World
EUROPEINTL CONFLICTSMIDDLE EASTOPINIONPOLITICS
All European shades of ISIL colour black: Neonazism of Europe and Fascism in the Arab World
Modern Diplomacy March 3, 2015
Al-Husseini (center) in a visit to Saudi Arabia in the early 1930s. To his left is Hashim al-Atassi, who later became president of Syria and to al-Husseini's right is Shakib Arslan, an Arab nationalist philosopher from Lebanon. (Photo: Courtesy of Wikipedia)
By Allan Bogle
How did Europe manage to drag Arabs to the wrong side of history – a confusion, pride, shame and denial – all which resurfaces again, 75 years after. How is this possible that the 'never-again' takes place today? Do we fake our surprise? How expensive is our European denial, and Monarchist Arabs claim of innocence?
** ** ** ** ** **
Haj Amin Al-Husseini was instrumental in ushering in National Socialism within the Arab World and in contributing to tens of thousands of deaths both directly and indirectly during the WWII. He has influenced men from Adolf Eichmann, Abdul Nasser to Yasser Arafat (to whom he was related) and was directly supported by Adolph Hitler. During his life, al-Husseini was responsible for briefly overthrowing the Iraqi government in 1941, creating Nazi SS divisions comprised of Muslims, representing and spreading National Socialism within the Arab World, fostering and implementing a radical departure within Arab-Jewish relations from peaceful co-existence to that of mass killings (eliminating ninety percent of all the Jews within the Balkans alone), and being responsible for the deaths of tens of thousands of Jews. Additionally, he had successfully fused National Socialism, Islamic fundamentalism, and Pan-Arabism into a hybrid that exists to this day.
The Nazi connection to Islamic extremism is a topic little known and understood in modern society. As the West attempts to understand the long simmering blood feud between Arab and Jew, little is spoken of the role that Haj Amin al-Husseini played in escalating the conflict through his collaboration with the Third Reich.
Haj Amin al-Husseini was born in 1895 in Jerusalem, which at the time was a protectorate of the Ottoman Empire. After attending the Al-AzharUniversity in Cairo for a year, he left to join the Ottoman Army at the outbreak of World War One. He achieved the rank of officer and was stationed among various ports near the Black Sea, primarily in the Greek Christian city of Smyrna. While there is little documentation to suggest that Husseini was directly involved with the subsequent Turkish genocide against the Christian Armenians, there can be no doubt that at the very least, he was consciously aware of the extermination program as much of the genocide was perpetrated within the areas where he was stationed. It was during these formative years of his youth that he began to embrace a fundamental pan Arab view of autonomy concerning not only Palestine, but later to include the entire Arab Peninsula. Throughout his life, this fundamental belief experienced various incarnations as Husseini struggled to deal with what he referred to as the "Jewish Question," finally culminating by advocating Jewish extermination during World War Two and after.
Haj Amin al-Husseini's rise to power
After being convicted by the British authorities for inciting a campaign of violence against Jewish settlers in 1920, he was suddenly pardoned by the British High Commissioner Sir Herbert Samuel, who was attempting to control the widespread violence against the Jews by pacifying Husseini and appointing him the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem (regardless of the fact that the Palestinian leadership had always voted for the position and that Husseini had finished a distant fourth). He was also given control of the Supreme Muslim Council that was created by the British to provide a voice concerning political matters within the British mandated rule of Palestine. Husseini would use this position by ridding himself of any opposition concerning his views toward the expulsion and eradication of Jews within Palestine. Throughout the decade of the 1920's, Husseini carried out several anti-Jewish pogroms against Jewish communities in Jerusalem, Motza, Hebron, Safed, Haifa, Tel Aviv, Jaffa, as well as those living in the countryside. Husseini ordered that slaughtered Jewish settlers should have their corpses disguised and then photographed as slain Arabs to further instigate and enflame Arab opinion. During these pogroms, Husseini organized and chaired the All-Islamic Conference in which he further consolidated his power and prestige within the Arab world. It was through this recognized entity throughout the Muslim world that Husseini would justify his position of authority to the Germans as being representative of Arab sentiment.
The birth of National Socialism within the Arab World
The election of Adolf Hitler as Chancellor of Germany in 1933 galvanized the Arab world; this in turn further accelerated and cemented Husseini's influence. Using the new Nazi regime's rise to power and subsequent infrastructure as a template, Husseini played a decisive role in creating pro-Nazi parties within the Arab world, most notably in Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and indirectly helping in the creation of the Social Nationalist Party in Syria. The emulation went far beyond just simple admiration as pan-Arab partied began to model themselves after the Nazi infrastructure. A young and powerful Abdul Gamal Nasser was heavily influenced by Husseini. Later to become one of Israel's greatest enemies, Nasser belonged to the Green Shirts who went so far as to adopt the Nazi party motto, "One Folk, One Party, One Leader." Consequently, National Socialism had a far more prevalent role in creating today's Arab nationalist parties and subsequent governments. Sami al_Joundi, the founder and father of the Syrian Ba'ath Party, influential both in Syria and later Iraq wrote, " We were racists. We admired the Nazis. We were immersed in reading Nazi literature and books that were the source of the Nazi spirit. We were the first who thought of a translation of Hitler's Mein Kampf. Anyone who lived in Damascus at that time was a witness to the Arab inclination toward Nazism."
Further evidence as to the enormous popularity that Hitler's policies were prevalent within the Arab world were the congratulatory telegrams sent to Hitler concerning his election to Chancellor, the first sent by foreign sources outside of Germany. It is at this point that Husseini first exclaims his desire to emulate and support Nazi policies toward the Jewish race, as evident by his message to the German Council in Jerusalem, "the Muslims inside and outside Palestine welcome the new regime of Germany and hope for he extension of the fascist, anti-democratic, governmental system to other countries." Further giving display to his admiration of Hitler was the creation by Husseini of a Palestinian youth organization called the "Nazi Scouts."
Contact between Husseini and leading Nazi figures
The time was fast approaching when a greater level of cooperation would be initiated between that of the Arab world, and that of the Nazi Germany. The first known contact between Husseini and a Nazi official was in 1936 when Husseini met with Francois Genoud, a prominent Swiss banker who represented much of the Third Reich's financial endeavors outside of Germany. This was a position awarded him by Hitler himself, who made Genoud an honorary member of the Nazi Waffen SS as well as receiving the decoration of the Gold Badge. During World War Two, Genoud provided financial assistance to Husseini and his Berlin sponsored government in exile in order to continue his anti-Jewish propaganda campaign that was disseminated throughout the Muslim world. While this was Husseini's first contact with a Nazi official, this was in no way his first contact with a representative of a fascist government; that "honor" belonged to the Italian Foreign Minister Count Galeazzo Ciano, who gave millions of dollars to Husseini for the sole purpose of poisoning the water wells in Tel Aviv.
Haj Amin al-Husseini meeting with Heinrich Himmler (1943). (Photo: Courtesy of Wikipedia)
Contact between Husseini and Nazi officials began to escalate after his first initial meeting with Genoud. On July 15, 1937, six days before his personal role in inciting riots against the local Jewish populace, Husseini met with the Nazi Ambassador Doehle, the German consul in Jerusalem. Doehle reported his meeting with Husseini, telling his superiors in Berlin that," The Grand Mufti stressed Arab sympathy for the new Germany and expressed the hope that Germany was sympathetic toward the Arab fight against Jewry and was prepared to support it." The riots though, continued unabated, so much so that the British sent Lord Peel, as the head of a fact finding commission, to interview all the various parties embroiled in this Jewish-Arab conflict, hoping to provide the British government with a better model to govern Palestine. One of these interviews was with Husseini, who made it very clear to Peel that his primary, if not sole, goal was the establishment of an all Arab Muslim state and the total eradication of four hundred thousand Jewish settlers. This transcribed interview with Peel directly contradicted the contemporary Arab nationalist belief that Zionists were attempting to evict all the Arabs from Palestine. The Peel commission recommended a partition between the Jewish and Arab settlements, an action that Husseini did not accept, expressing his vehement antagonism not only against those Jews in Palestine but also against those Arab moderates who agreed in principle with the Peel Commission's findings and recommendations. Waves of assassinations resulted in the wake of Husseini's anger against those within his own camp who openly disagreed with him.
Husseini's influence on Nazi policy concerning the Jewish question
By this time, Husseini had attracted the attention of Nazi SA 0bergruppenfuehrer Reinhard Heydrich, who sent both Hauptschanfuehrer Adolf Eichmann and his assistant Nazi SS Oberscherfuehrer Herbert Hagen to Palestine as his personal envoys to meet with Husseini. While there is little documentation surviving regarding the nature of their meeting, it is already apparent as to the strength of Husseini's persistence and personality in influencing Nazi policy concerning their dealings with the Jewish population. This is evident because of Eichmann's meeting with the Zionist Feivel Polkes. Polkes, who, in his meeting with Eichmann, argued for the increased Jewish immigration from Germany into Palestine, an idea that was openly discussed and even supported by high-ranking members of the Nazi hierarchy at the beginning of the war. Eichmann though, who met with Husseini afterward, reveals Husseini's influence by arguing against such immigration measures by filing reports of Nazi influence within the Palestinian populace. This was certainly not the last time Husseini would be able to influence Eichmann, nor for that matter, Nazi decisions concerning the fate of the Jews. Husseini's growing importance to the Nazis resulted in Nazi Admiral Wilhelm Canaris, the head of the Nazi Abwehr Intelligence Division, putting Husseini on the Nazi payroll.
Arab protest delegations against British policy in Palestine during 1929 (Photo: Courtesy of Wikipedia)
The revolt in Iraq
By 1939, the British had tired of Husseini's influence and violent reprisals against British rule and stripped away Husseini's various political titles, eventually deporting him from Palestine. Husseini fled to Lebanon and solicited additional Nazi support. This resulted in sending his personal assistant Doctor Said Imam to Berlin. Accompanying Imam was a personal letter to the Nazi leadership offering support and "disseminating National Socialist ideas within the Arab-Islamic world." To further bolster his loyalty to the Nazi cause, Husseini traveled to Iraq to participate in the Nazi backed coup conducted by the pro-Nazi Iraqi National Party. In 1941, Husseini formed the Iraqi Committee of Seven, which included the top leaders of the planned pro-Nazi government. In the months leading up to the coup, Husseini was instrumental in arranging the meeting between coup planners and the Nazi officials Joachim Ribbentrop, the Nazi Foreign Minister, and Franz von Papen, the Nazi ambassador to Turkey. As Nazi successes on the battlefield filled newspaper headlines across the world in 1941, Husseini sent his personal envoy, Uthman Kamal Hadded, on a secret mission to Berlin with a letter from Husseini. At the beginning of the letter, Husseini immediately presents himself as the only qualified and legitimate leader of the Arab world. In the letter, Husseini makes clear his alignment with German racial policy particularly concerning the Jews: "His excellency is well aware of the problem faced by this country, which has suffered from the deceitful actions of the English. They attempted to place an additional obstacle before the unity and independence of the Arab states by abandoning it to world Jewry, this dangerous enemy whose secret weapon…finance, corruption, and intrigue…were aligned with British dangers…Full of unvanquished faith, the Arabs of Palestine fought with the most elementary mutual hatred of the English and the Jews…."
November 1943 al-Husseini greeting Bosnian Waffen-SS volunteers with a Nazi salute. At right is SS General Karl-Gustav Sauberzweig. (Photo: Courtesy of Wikipedia)
After the pro-Nazi coup was launched successfully on April 1, 1941 (though in power for only a month), Husseini wrote Hitler again, asking that Hitler "recognize the right of the Arabs to solve the Jewish question…in the same manner as in the Axis countries." The coup though failed, largely as a result of a British backed insurrection. This action infuriated Husseini and resulted in him publicly blaming the fall of Iraqi "nationalism" on the shoulders of the ancient Jewish community that resided within Iraq for millennia, tracing back its lineage to the time of Judah's captivity by the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar. The result of Husseini's allegation was six hundred dead Jews and the looting and destruction of Jewish shops and homes. This pogrom is known to Sephardic Jews as the Fahud.
Husseini meets with Benito Mussolini
As the Nazi backed provisional government collapsed, Husseini fled to Berlin, stopping on the way to meet with the Italian Fascist Dictator, Benito Mussolini, during which they discussed their mutual hatred for the Jews. During his stay, Mussolini gave him one million Lira for expenses. At this point, the Axis powers viewed Husseini as their most trusted conduit, not only to the Middle East but also to the Muslim world in general. His arrival into Berlin was heralded with the pomp and circumstance usually given to those of head of state. He continually met with high-ranking Nazi officials and while awaiting a first meeting with Hitler, he wrote that "to settle the question of Jewish elements in Palestine and other Arab countries in accordance with the national and racial interests of the Arabs and along the lines similar to those used to solve the Jewish question in Germany and Italy."
Husseini meets with Adolf Hitler
After meeting with SS leader Heinrich Himmler and Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop, who prepared him in his request for an interview with Hitler, Husseini drafted fifteen different documents concerning a joint declaration that he desired both Hitler and Mussolini to issue publicly in support of Arab nationalism and cooperation with the Axis powers. In the fateful meeting between Hitler and Husseini, which occurred on November 25th of 1941, Hitler told him the Jews were his foremost enemy. The Nazi dictator rebuffed the Mufti's requests for a declaration in support of the Arabs, telling him the time was not right. Husseini then offered Hitler his "thanks for the sympathy which he had always shown for the Arab and especially Palestinian cause, and to which he had given clear expression in his public speeches….The Arabs were Germany's natural friends because they had the same enemies as had Germany, namely….the Jews…."
Haj Amin al-Husseini meeting with Adolf Hitler (December 1941) (Photo: Courtesy of WikiCommons)
Hitler replied: "Germany stood for uncompromising war against the Jews. That naturally included active opposition to the Jewish national home in Palestine, which was nothing other than a center, in the form of a state, for the exercise of destructive influence by Jewish interests. Germany would furnish positive and practical aid to the Arabs involved in the same struggle…. Germany's objective [is]…solely the destruction of the Jewish element residing in the Arab sphere…. In that hour the Mufti (Husseini) would be the most authoritative spokesman for the Arab world." The Mufti thanked Hitler profusely.
Germany was involved in a life and death struggle against Russia and Great Britain (which Hitler referred to as two citadels of Jewish power) and was actively involved on all fronts; the fact that Operation Barbarossa was so consuming made Hitler hesitant to send any badly needed troops to the Arab world. Hitler though did promise one thing which pleased Husseini greatly, that once the war against Russia and Britain was won, Germany's objective would then be the destruction of the Jewish elements residing in the Arab sphere under the protection or control of British power. In that hour the Mufti would be the most authoritative spokesman for the Arab world.
Husseini creates S.S. divisions and is the sole mouthpiece for Nazi propaganda within the Muslim world
After meeting with Hitler, Husseini was filled with new purpose, that of the promise of Nazi intervention to restore Palestine as a sovereign state and he eradication of the entire Jewish population. In May of 1942, Husseini began a series of radio broadcasts to the Arab world via Bari radio. The Bari station was equipped with an extremely powerful radio transmitter, which was located on the southern tip of Italy, its signal reaching a large segment of the Arab world. Beginning in 1942, as the German army began to suffer tactical setbacks under the command of Erwin Rommel at El Alamein, Husseini began to increase his inflammatory dialogue. He broadcast his plans to set up concentration camps outside of Nablus as soon as the Nazis were victorious in driving Allied forces out of Northern Africa and the Middle East. One such famous quote from his broadcasts is: "Arise. O sons of Arabia, fight for your sacred rights. Kill the Jews wherever you find them. Their spilled blood pleases Allah, our history and religion. That will save our honor."
In addition to the radio broadcasts and other conduits available to the dissemination of propaganda (leaflets, booklets, publications, etc) Husseini was given the responsibility by SS leader Heinrich Himmler in recruiting and maintaining SS divisions comprised of Muslims. Husseini broadcast messages into Nazi occupied Russia, exhorting local Muslims to join various Nazi sponsored military units. He was given this authority to create and raise these divisions as a result of a meeting with Gottlob Berger, the chief recruiter for the Schutzstaffel SS. Berger stated at the onset "a link is created between Islam and National Socialism on an open, honest basis. It will be directed in terms of blood and race from the North, and in the ideological-spiritual sphere from the East." The creation of these units were known as Hanzar Brigades and resulted in the addition of several Einsatzgruppen divisions to the Axis cause. These Hanzar units were responsible for the extermination of ninety percent of the Jewish population within Bosnia as well as similar actions within Croatia and Hungary. As each of these divisions became active, they received speeches upon ceremonial activation by Husseini exhorting them that the "Jews are the worst enemies of the Muslims." Himmler also established a school in Dresden to train mullahs who would then be placed directly under the control of Husseini. At the end of the war, there were over one hundred thousand European Muslims recruited to fight in specially designed Nazi brigades.
Husseini's role with the Holocaust
His role in the Final Solution was also well known to the Nazi Hierarchy. On several occasions, Husseini directly intervened to stop any attempt to either help the Jews or hinder or delay their destruction. When Red Cross officials attempted to negotiate the exchange of four thousand Jewish children from Poland, Husseini directly intervened by writing to von Ribbentrop who then forwarded the letter to Adolf Eichmann, who was at the time contemplating agreeing to the Red Cross request. Instead, the children were sent to Auschwitz. Husseini also wrote to the foreign ministers of both Romania and Hungary requesting they also stop emigration attempts in trying to resolve the Jewish question without resorting to extermination. In both cases, Romania with two thousand Jews, and Hungary with one thousand Jews, relented and sent their Jewish allotments in question to extermination camps. Husseini went so far as to actually castigate those Germans who had shown either an unwillingness or wavered in abiding by Nazi racial policies. This is evident by his brazen letter to the Nazi foreign minister von Ribbentrop in which he admonished Ribbentrop in not following Nazi directives concerning the extermination of Jews. Even when Rudolf Kastner, of the Jewish Rescue and Relief Committee in Budapest (later to be tried in Israel for collaborating with the Nazis) contacted Eichmann in an attempt to allow Jews to emigrate to Palestine, he received a response from Eichmann in which the reply was, "I am personal friend of the Grand Mufti. We have promised him that no European Jew would enter Palestine anymore."
As the war progressed, Husseini escalated his attempts to influence those in command in the Nazi hierarchy to exterminate Jews in ever growing numbers. On a visit to Auschwitz, he was said to have urged the German guards to work more diligently in exterminating the Jews. In a document presented to the United Nations in 1947, Husseini's correspondence with the Hungarian Foreign Minister was made public requesting the deportation of Hungarian Jews to Poland. The document contained the following notation: "As a sequel to this request 400,000 Jews were subsequently killed." Dieter Wisliceny, Adolf Eichmann's deputy, testified during his trial in Nuremberg that Husseini was "one of the initiators of the systematic extermination of European Jewry and had been a collaborator and advisor of Eichmann and Himmler in the execution of this plan….He was one of Eichmann's best friends and had constantly incited him to accelerate the extermination measures."
There is speculation as to how great Husseini's influence was on Nazi efforts to eradicate the Jewish "problem." Historians do know that two months before the Wansee Conference, Husseini wrote in his diary "I am resolved to find a solution for the Jewish problem, progressing step by step without cessation. With regard to this I am making the necessary and right appeal, first to all the European countries and then to countries outside of Europe."
In his own memoirs, published before he died, Husseini wrote that "Our fundamental condition for cooperating with Germany was a free hand to eradicate every last Jew from Palestine and the Arab world. I asked Hitler for an explicit undertaking to allow us to solve the Jewish problem in a manner befitting our national and racial aspirations and according to the scientific methods innovated by Germany in the handling of the Jews. The answer I got was" 'The Jews are yours.'"
The assimilation of Nazis within the Arab world at the end of WW II
After fleeing Germany at the end of the war, Husseini was instrumental in ferrying certain Nazis to various locations within the Arab world as well as helping in the placement of these figures who would be beneficial to the various respective Arab governments who could use their services in promoting their own nationalistic endeavors against the newly created state of Israel. This was known as Project Odessa. Husseini was to ferry key Nazi figures fleeing from war crimes charges into key positions within the Arab world, primarily Egypt and Syria who were the main antagonists advocating the destruction of Israel and attempted to do so several times within the span of Husseini's life, most notably during the Six-day war in 1967 and in the Yom Kippur War in 1973.
In 1962, Al-Husseini would lead the Islamic World Congress for the last time, retiring shortly thereafter. Before leaving office, the Congress, while under the leadership of Husseini, drew up a resolution that was eerily similar to that of the invective spewed forth by Nazi officials two decades earlier. The resolution called for the ethnic cleansing of all Jews within the Arab World and to establish a Middle East that was "Judenrein" (free of Jews).
On July 5th, 1974, Husseini died, passing the torch to a new protégé, his nephew, Yasir Arafat who in a later interview called his diabolical uncle "a great hero." Throughout the years Arafat has gone on record several times in praising the "virtues" of his uncle. That Husseini groomed Arafat for this role of leadership within the newly created PLO is of no question. Husseini placed him in command of arms procurement for his militia as well as arranging for Arafat to fulfill the role of a leader, grooming him for the necessary tenacity required to fill the vacancy that Husseini would leave behind.
In light of the historical record, which shows indisputably Husseini's role in the Holocaust, one wonders as to the absurdity prevalent within the Arab world in denying not only allegations of wrongdoing through their idealistic and nationalistic leaders but also the very Holocaust itself. The historical record though is clear. The Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, the one man who could claim to be the spokesman and ideological leader of the Arab world, was an accomplice to mass murder.
National Socialism and its integration within Arab foreign policy
Since the end of World War Two, National Socialism has continued to steadily influence political and ideological thought in the Muslim world. The first such signs were apparent during the trial of Adolf Eichmann in 1961 when Arab newspapers, providing coverage of the trial for their readers, were openly sympathetic to Eichmann's cause, going so far as to complain that the only fault visible to them was the inability of Eichmann to complete the Final Solution. At the same time was General Gamal Abdul Nasser, who after seizing power in 1952, incorporated literally dozens of former officials from the Nazi hierarchy, including notorious S.S. members such as Otto Skorzeny, Obersturmbannführer of the Waffen S.S. and also labeled at one time by the OSS as the most dangerous man in Europe; and Joachim Daumling, the former chief of the Gestapo in Dusseldorf, who completely rebuilt the Egyptian intelligence services.
Financial connections between Arab extremist organizations and former Nazis
Husseini spent much of the post-war period funneling money to extremist Islamic groups whose views corresponded with his own, money that had been pilfered from Jews at the hands of the Nazis. This money was used in a variety of ways, from supporting terrorist organizations, to producing his propaganda. The Swiss Nazi banker, Francois Genoud, aided him heavily in this endeavor. Genoud was an unrepentant Nazi until his death in 1996 at the age of 81; in the midst of investigations into his support for terrorist organizations. Genoud was instrumental in supplying Husseini with funds throughout Husseini's post war life, primarily because of his creation and involvement in the Arab Commercial bank in 1958. The bank offered loans to Arabic nationalist groups that fought against or attacked Israel. Genoud was so adamantly anti-Semitic that he actually ordered his bank to manage the fighting fund of the Islamic Algerian independence movement. Genoud was highly influential in transporting key Nazi figures into the Arab World through the Odessa project which was created and funded by Genoud, who oversaw the transfer of millions of marks into his accounts which were then used to finance Odessa and Husseini's own endeavors. The principal source of the finances that made this possible originated from the personal holdings, property, and belongings from Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Additionally, Genoud acquired the rights to the published writings of leading Nazi figures such as Joseph Goebbels, Martin Bormann, and that of Hitler. His acquisition came as a result of becoming personally involved with the families of each. The primary reason however, in his support for Husseini and Islamic extremism, was a conversation he had with Major Herman Bernhard Ramcke, during which he learned of Martin Boormann's account of the many conversations with Hitler in the last three years of his life. These written accounts were later handed to him in full by SS Captain Hans Reichenberg, resulting in Genoud publishing them several years later. Genoud wrote the preface, claiming, "Hitler wanted the people of the Third World to carry on the work of the Thousand Year Reich." Genoud was also instrumental in the hijacking of a Lufthansa 747 in Bombay by Islamic terrorists who demanded five million dollars for the Organization for the Victims of the Zionist Occupation. It was Genoud who carried the ransom letter, though at the time, his complicity was not known. In 1962, Genoud moved to Algiers where he became the director of the Arab People's Bank, yet another institution that he used to transfer over fifteen million dollars belonging to the National Liberation Front to Swiss bank accounts. For this action he was arrested in Algiers but later rescued by the Egyptian President Abdel Nasser, who was well versed in the ideological trappings of National Socialism, due in no small part to the influence of Husseini. Throughout Husseini's public career, Genoud served as his personal financial advisor.
Genoud was not Husseini's only Nazi contact. The American H. Keith Thompson, an influential Nazi activist, has readily admitted to helping Husseini in his post-war activities by stating that he "did a couple of jobs for him, getting some documents from files that were otherwise unavailable." Another collaborator was Youssef Nada who served with Husseini during the war as a member of the Muslim Brotherhood party. The Muslim Brotherhood party directly supported the operations set forth by Husseini and Nazi Military Intelligence, who in 1936, recruited Nada and others to link up with the Young Egypt Party, whose membership included Gamal Nasser and Anwar Sadat. The Young Egypt Party was an exact carbon copy of the Nazi Party, going so far as to use translated Nazi slogans and call themselves the "Green Shirts." Youssef Nada, who worked closely with Nazi intelligence, until recently was the director of the al-Taqwa bank, an institution that the U.S. Treasury has condemned for laundering money and financing al-Qaeda as well as having connections to various extremist Islamic organizations.
Key Nazi figures within various Arab governments
In the several decades following the conclusion of World War Two, thousands of Nazi fugitives, collaborators and sympathizers flooded into the Arab World, particularly Egypt. The Egyptian President made it very clear that he desired the propagation of these Nazi's into the Egyptian hierarchy, "We will use the services of those who know the mentality of our enemies." Among the many Nazis who fled (or were invited) to Egypt was Franz Bartel, the Gestapo head of Katowice, Poland who subsequently ran the "Jewish Department" of the Egyptian War Office, Standartenfuhrer Baumann, who was instrumental in the liquidation of the Warsaw Ghetto and who now was an integral part of the Palestinian Liberation Front, also based in Egypt. Various Nazi medical personnel, such as Doctor Herbert Heim and Doctor Willerman who committed atrocities under the guise of "medial experimentation" at Mauthausen and Dachau, were also welcomed within the Arab world. Nasser particularly sought those Nazis from the realm of Jewish anti-propaganda. Nasser established an Institute for the Study of Zionism in Cairo in 1959, which employed former key figures in Goebbel's Ministry of Propaganda, including Luis Heiden, who translated Hitler's Mein Kampf. into Arabic, which was then issued to every officer in the Egyptian army. Nasser, was impressed with the success of the integration of Nazis within the military infrastructure of Egypt and ordered Colonel Muhammad al-Shazli, his attaché in London in 1962, to contact prominent Nazi sympathizers in London such as Colin Jordan and John Tyndall and discuss the funding and financial support of the National Socialist Movement in Jordan.
The assimilation of the tenets and adherents of National Socialism within the Arab world continues to reverberate through the decades. In 1976, the Saudi representative in the United Nations denied the claims of a historical Holocaust in a speech to the United Nations Security Council and laid the creation of such a "myth" as the result of Zionist media. Exactly one year later, the Saudi government gave twenty five thousand dollars to the American Neo-Nazi William Grimstad to write a book detailing a collection of quotes concerning anti Semitic behavior throughout the centuries called Anti-Zion. In the 1980's, Inamullah Khan, the director of the World Muslim league located in Pakistan, paid thousands of dollars for this Nazi-influenced book to be sent via mail to every member of the United States Congress and the Senate, as well as every British MP in Parliament. Mein Kampf has been a best seller within the Palestinian territories as well as having been published across the Arab world and other Islamic countries; currently it is on the bestseller list in Turkey. In Lebanon, there are several translations in circulation, all under the watchful eye of Syrian leadership. The translation of Mein Kampf is primarily handled by Luis al-Haj who wrote the introduction: "We made a point to deliver Hitler's opinions and theories on nationalism, regimes, and ethnicity without any changes because they are not yet outmoded and because we, in the Arab world, still proceed haphazardly in all three fields." Clearly the link between Islamic extremism and National Socialism has been shown time and time again by not only the leaders of the Arab world but in the simple beliefs of their constituents. Fatma Abdallah Mahmoud, writing for the Egyptian government daily Al-Akhbar, wrote on April 29th, 2002, "Hitler himself, whom they accuse of Nazism, is in my eyes no more than a modest 'pupil' in the world of murder and bloodshed. He is completely innocent of the charge of frying them in the hell of his false Holocaust!!" The entire matter, as many French and British scientists and researchers have proven, is nothing more than a huge Israeli plot aimed at extorting the German government in particular and the European countries in general. But I, personally and in light of this imaginary tale, complain to Hitler, even saying to him from the bottom of my heart, 'If only you had done it, brother, if only it had really happened, so that the world could sigh in relief [without] their evil and sin.'"
Today, the Arab run cable channel Al-Manar, is disseminating and propagating anti-Semitic material into France, Germany and other countries with sizeable Arab populations. The broadcasting of the twenty-nine part series "Al Shatat" deals with the prevalent Islamic belief that the WorldTradeCenter bombing was the result of an Israeli Intelligence Services operation. After the French Prime Minister pressed for charges in order to block the broadcasts from airing in France, the heads of Al-Manar immediately sought help from the German Ministry in keeping the controversial program alive. This action in turn caused Udo Steinbach, head of the Deutsche Orient-Institut in Hamburg, to comment about the "lingering effects of the sympathy traditionally evinced for Germany in the whole region."
Of particular interest since 9/11, is Adolf Hitler's own vision for his attack on New York City, as accounted by Albert Speer in his biography, in which he recounts Hitler describing New York's skyscrapers turning into "gigantic burning torches, collapsing upon one another, the glow of the exploding city illuminating the dark sky."
Recent connections between Arab countries and Neo-Nazis
In recent years, especially since the 9/11 attacks on American soil, there has been increased communication between Neo-Nazis and their Islamic counterparts, united in a single goal, that of the elimination of International Jewry. In 2005, the offices of a prominent neo Nazi (as well as a convert to Islam), Ahmed Huber was raided by Swiss police at the request of the United States government because of the American accusations that Huber was instrumental in providing financial assistance to Osama Bin Laden. At times, neo-Nazis have offered more that financial support. During the beginning of the first Gulf War, German neo-Nazis created an anti-Zionist brigade called the "Freedom Corps" that paraded around Baghdad in SS uniforms. Jorg Haider, who also governs the Austrian province Carinthia, runs an organization linked to this attempt, entitled the Freedom Party, composed of former Nazis as well as younger neo-Nazis. The Freedom Party has continuously downplayed or rejected Nazi atrocities and German war guilt. In 2000, Colonel Muammar Ghaddafi of Libya, deposited twenty five million dollars into a bank in Carinthia under Jorg Haider's control. The "gift" was meant to alleviate sanctions imposed on Austria by the European Union in response to the Freedom Party being integrated into Austria's governing coalition. This was not Ghaddafi's first encounter with neo-Nazis; in 1982, the Italian neo-Nazi Stefano delle Chiaie, who had committed several bombings in Rome and Milan wrote to Ghaddafi, "Libya can, if it wants, be the active focus, the center of national socialist renovation [that will] break the chains which enslave people and nations." Neo Nazis have since appeared in newspapers across the Arab world, their writings reaching a much larger audience than in the West.
There is no question as to the substantial influence that National Socialism has had on Arab nationalism. I believe that history shows that the main conduit for the spread of National Socialism was Haj Amin al-Husseini and that the following decades have seen the rise of Islamic extremism, which can be directly attributed to National Socialism and its many adherents. Part of this blame is to be placed at the feet of the Superpowers, primarily the United States and the Soviet Union; both countries began adhering to their respective foreign policies during the Cold War. This included ignoring the influx of Nazi officials and other sympathizers during the last stages of the war as well as the decades after 1945. Several of these figures that escaped into the Middle East were able to cut deals with the United States in return for the exchange of information concerning Nazi funded weapons programs. Lax security measures also played an important part in allowing thousands of Nazis to escape, not only to the Middle East but also to locations all over the world. It was not until the 1980's that bank accounts and other financial institutions were examined by the West in attempting to recover funds that were attributable, directly or indirectly, to power brokers within the Arab world.
Ironically, it is the Arab World, which so strenuously denies that the Holocaust ever took place. It is a denial that is based not only on ignorance concerning the historical record, but also concerning their own role in the Holocaust. Ex-Nazi officials aided their governments and the various institutions of their military, and their own recognition of Husseini's role in World War Two has been placed in a decidedly supportive light. Additionally, Israel is now looked upon as being synonymous with Nazi-like oppression in their dealings with their neighboring Arab countries, a horribly misconstrued role reversal in which the past Nazi aggression is now looked upon as being somewhat justifiable in their past persecution of the Jewish race. This can only be directly attributed to the symbiosis of National Socialism and Islamic extremism, in which the truth is considered expendable, a trait that both ideologies seem to share. There is only one weapon that can be use to combat this deadly symbiosis and that is education; an objective understanding of history and what role National Socialism has played in the formation of foreign policy in Arab countries, especially with that of Israel. Until then, the tenets of National Socialism have found a comfortable home indeed within the Middle East and in other Islamic countries.
Allan Bogle is a prolific author and historian. One of his focuses is a contemporary and classic Middle East.
Adolf Hitler Arab nationalism Germany Haj Amin Al-Husseini Israel Nazism SS
Germany's even larger than expected fiscal surpluses: Is there a link with the constitutional debt brake?
Confronting Russian energy hegemony in Europe
Age of Populists: Rise of far right populism in Europe ahead of EU elections
What's left of the Left: How Spain can revive Europe's liberals
The psychology of fascism
Modern Diplomacy
Modern Diplomacy is an online journal perceived as the valuable tool for the assessment and understanding of world affairs through a combination of qualitative analysis, political commentary, information, interviews and specific thematic features
Georgia's UNM to demand government's resignation in a protest rally
Serbia and 'Turkish Stream'