Death march

The term 'death march' refers to the forced migration of prisoners from concentration and extermination camps during the Second World War, often for months at a time, especially towards the end of the war when the Nazis were trying to cover up the traces of their crimes.

The prisoners, mostly Jews, political prisoners and other victim groups, were herded on foot over long distances in extreme conditions to other camps or remote locations. Many died on the marches from exhaustion, disease or starvation, or were shot by guards. The death marches are among the most horrific aspects of the Shoah.