| Abstract: | The DP camps had served as "temporary homes" for millions of people. The DPs themselves had survived unbelievable experiences during the Second World War. Within the camps, they were able to rebuild their lives. They established self-governing institutions and developed educational, cultural, and religious facilities. In the process, cultural and political communities were created. Cultures were saved from near extinction. DPs could not forget such an experience; rebuilding would be remembered forever. Neither could the governing institutions forget their grand achievement. Care, in its various forms, had never before reached such a large scale. Military governments, UNRRA, and the IRO had accomplished an unbelievable task. Their task, however, could not have succeeded without the tremendous aid of the multiple voluntary agencies. Foresight and planning by the governments of the United States and the United Kingdom spared a war-ravished Europe from the potential horrors of a displaced, disenchanted mob. By providing for these people, Europe was able to begin the trek towards normalcy and stability. The displaced person camps ordered, trained, and dismissed a mass which lacked direction, placing their occupants throughout Europe and the world. Calm followed where chaos reigned; the people of Europe began their ascent from the hell of the Second World War. |
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