Nazi party archives made available online for genealogical research

Nazi party (NSDAP) membership archives have been made available online, allowing millions of people to investigate whether their ancestors were members of the party. The archives include approximately 6.6 million membership files containing personal details such as names, professions, dates of joining, dates of birth, and places of residence.

These documents were originally intended for destruction at the end of World War II. However, a Bavarian paper manufacturer named Hanns Huber failed to follow instructions to destroy them, resulting in nearly 80 percent of the files being recovered by American troops.

Research can be conducted through American archives or via a search engine provided by the publication Die Zeit. In Alsace, the NSDAP section was only established in March 1941, shortly before the party ceased accepting new members in 1942. Local media outlets are currently seeking individuals who have utilized these online resources for their research.