1. For Jewish People:
- Pre-War Prosperity: In many European countries, Jews had made significant contributions to society and achieved prosperity in various fields, including academia, business, and the arts.
- Cultural and Religious Integration: Many Jewish communities had a long history of living peacefully alongside other religious and ethnic groups. They actively participated in society, contributing to cultural and intellectual development.
- Legal Equality: In the years leading up to World War II, many countries had granted legal equality to their Jewish citizens, allowing them to participate fully in society and enjoy the same rights as non-Jewish individuals.
2. For Other Targeted Groups:
- Political Activists: Dissidents, political opponents, and individuals belonging to minority groups often faced persecution and suppression even before the rise of the Nazis. They may have experienced discrimination, surveillance, or imprisonment for expressing dissenting views or challenging the prevailing ideologies.
- Ethnic and Religious Minorities: Similar to Jews, other ethnic and religious minorities, including Roma, Sinti, and Jehovah's Witnesses, experienced varying degrees of discrimination and marginalization in pre-war societies.
It's important to note that the experiences of individuals differed significantly based on their specific backgrounds and circumstances. While some Jewish people had achieved success and integration, others faced antisemitism and discrimination. Additionally, the levels of tolerance and acceptance of different groups varied among different countries and regions in Europe before the establishment of concentration camps.