ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Leica Freedom Train

The Leica Freedom Train was a secret program that helped Jewish-owned Leica camera company employees escape persecution during World War II.

Many Jewish people were being persecuted and killed during the war, and Leica wanted to help their employees who were in danger because they were Jewish. So, they created a secret plan to help them escape to safety.

The plan was called the Leica Freedom Train. Leica made arrangements for their employees to leave Germany or other countries where they were in danger and go to other countries where they would be safe. The company paid for their transportation and gave them money so they could start a new life.

To keep the plan a secret, Leica didn't tell anyone about it, not even the Nazi government. The program was organized by Ernst Leitz II, who was the leader of the company. He believed it was his moral duty to help his employees in any way he could.

In the end, the Leica Freedom Train saved the lives of hundreds of people. It was an act of kindness and bravery from Leica during a very dark time in human history.