How many concentration camps in Germany were there back 1940?

The number of concentration camps in Germany in 1940 is not a straightforward answer. While the Nazi regime had established several concentration camps by 1940, the exact number can vary depending on the definition and scope considered. Here's some context and information:

Early Concentration Camps:

The Nazi regime established the first concentration camps primarily for political prisoners and opponents shortly after coming to power in 1933. Some of the early concentration camps included:

- Dachau (opened in March 1933)

- Oranienburg (opened in March 1933)

- Esterwegen (opened in September 1933)

- Sachsenhausen (opened in July 1936)

- Buchenwald (opened in July 1937)

Expanding Camp System:

As the Nazi regime's policies became more oppressive and the persecution of various groups intensified, the concentration camp system expanded. By the end of 1938, there were about six main concentration camps in Germany.

Evolving Definitions:

During World War II, which started in September 1939, the Nazi regime established additional facilities for various purposes, including forced labor, detention of specific groups, and extermination. These included:

- Labor camps (Arbeitslager)

- Extermination camps (Vernichtungslager)

- Transit camps (Durchgangslager)

- Concentration camps (Konzentrationslager)

Changing Boundaries:

With German territorial expansions during the war, some concentration camps were established in occupied countries, such as Auschwitz in Poland and Bergen-Belsen in northwestern Germany.

Therefore, the number of concentration camps in Germany specifically depends on the timeframe and geographical scope considered. At the beginning of 1940, there were about six main concentration camps in Germany. However, throughout World War II, the Nazi regime established and operated a vast network of concentration camps, labor camps, and extermination camps both within Germany and in occupied territories, involving hundreds of facilities.