Hidden children, survivors of the Holocaust in Brussels

Testimony

Watch the testimony clips of Michel and Gilbert, then read Gilbert's short biography.

Gilbert C. Pogany (born Gilbert Claude Pollak) was born in 1932, in Brussels, Belgium, into a Jewish family with Hungarian origins. His father Ladislaus was working as a housepainter, while her mother was a seamstress. Both of his parents were atheist, they did not practice any religion. After the war, Gilbert emigrated to the US, got married and had two children and many grandchildren. Gilbert's interests spanned history, literature, and science. Dedicated teachers encouraged his intellectual journey, and he avidly explored books at the local library. Throughout his life, Gilbert remained deeply impacted by the Holocaust, advocating for tolerance and love in the face of prejudice. He believed these principles were humanity's salvation, urging future generations to learn from history and prioritize them. His interview was recorded in 1997, in Burbank, California.


ContinueBack to map

Terms and Privacy

© 2024 USC Shoah Foundation, All Rights Reserved