The movement that inspired the Holocaust

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Alexandra Minna Stern and Natalie Lira |

TED-Ed

• March 2022

Since ancient Greece, humans have controlled populations via reproduction, retaining some traits and removing others. But in the 19th century, a new scientific movement dedicated to this endeavor emerged: eugenics. Scientists believed they could improve society by ensuring that only desirable traits were passed down. Alexandra Minna Stern and Natalie Lira detail the history of eugenics in the US. [Directed by Héloïse Dorsan-Rachet, narrated by Christina Greer, music by Stephen LaRosa].