Edelweiss Pirates

Who were the Edelweiss Pirates?

The Edelweiss Pirates were a working class movement that started in 1937. They hated the Hitler Youth.

What did the Edelweiss Pirates do?

They would beat up Hitler Youth members. They also wore clothing unacceptable to the Nazis and listened to music that was banned.

What impact did the Edelweiss Pirates have?

While they were never a real threat to the Nazis, their activities increased as the war progressed. They provided shelter for army deserters and helped prisoners escape from concentration camps. They derailed trains going to the camps and stole food and supplies.

What happened to the Cologne Edelweiss Pirates?

A member of the Cologne Pirates was executed for planning to blow up a Gestapo building in 1944.