Savage War Crimes

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Understanding Savage War Crimes from World War II

Overview:

In this tutorial, we will delve into the savage war crimes committed during World War II as described in the closed captions of the video "Savage War Crimes" by Simple History. We will explore three key events: the Biscari Massacre in Sicily, the Baton Death March in the Philippines, and the experiences of American POWs in the Hanoi Hilton prison during the Vietnam War.

Materials Needed:

• Computer or mobile device with internet access for research
• Pen and paper for note-taking

Step 1: The Biscari Massacre in Sicily

1. Background Information:

   • The Biscari Massacre occurred on July 14, 1943, during the invasion of Sicily.
   • Two soldiers of the 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, were responsible for the murder of 71 Italians and two German prisoners of war.

2. Understanding the Context:

   • The soldiers of the 180th Infantry Regiment were inexperienced and faced heavy casualties during the invasion.
   • The massacre was a result of frustration and poor performance by American soldiers.

3. Investigation and Trial:

   • Sergeant Horace T. West and Captain John Compton were tried for murder.
   • West was sentenced to life imprisonment, while Compton was acquitted but later killed in action.

Step 2: The Baton Death March in the Philippines

1. Historical Context:

   • The Baton Death March occurred after the surrender of American and Filipino forces in the Philippines in April 1942.
   • Approximately 76,000 prisoners of war were forced to march 66 miles under inhumane conditions.

2. Understanding the March:

   • Prisoners faced starvation, dehydration, and brutal treatment by Japanese soldiers.
   • Many prisoners died from exhaustion, malnutrition, and mistreatment during the march.

3. Aftermath:

   • General Masaharu Homma, the commander of the Japanese 14th Army, was sentenced to death for war crimes related to the Baton Death March.

Step 3: American POWs in the Hanoi Hilton Prison

1. Introduction to the Hanoi Hilton:

   • The Hanoi Hilton was a notorious prison complex in Hanoi, Vietnam, where American POWs were held during the Vietnam War.
   • Prisoners endured harsh living conditions, torture, and psychological abuse.

2. Life in the Prison:

   • Prisoners faced physical and psychological torture, malnutrition, and lack of medical care.
   • Communication among prisoners was restricted, leading them to develop a tap code for covert communication.

3. Release and Impact:

   • American POWs were released in 1973 as part of Operation Homecoming after years of captivity.
   • Former prisoners shared their experiences, shedding light on the atrocities faced in the Hanoi Hilton.

Conclusion:

By following this step-by-step tutorial, you have gained insights into the savage war crimes committed during World War II and the experiences of American POWs in the Hanoi Hilton prison. Understanding these historical events helps us reflect on the human cost of war and the importance of preserving the memory of those who suffered.