No, the zookeeper's wife was not German. She was born in Russia.
Antonina Żabińska: The Real Zookeeper's Wife
Antonina Żabińska, the real woman who was the wife of the zookeeper Jan Żabiński, was born in Russia. Her early life was marked by significant historical events, as she survived a revolution during her childhood. Later in life, she faced the harrowing challenges of the Nazi occupation of Poland during World War II.
During this tumultuous period, Antonina, alongside her husband Jan, played a crucial role in saving over 300 Jews and members of the Polish resistance by hiding them within the Warsaw Zoo's enclosures and their private villa. Their incredible courage and humanitarian efforts were eventually recognized by the State of Israel, which declared her Righteous Among the Nations.
Key Biographical Facts
To provide a clear overview of Antonina Żabińska's background, here are some key facts:
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Antonina Żabińska |
| Birthplace | Russia |
| Nationality | Russian by birth, later Polish (by marriage and residency) |
| Spouse | Jan Żabiński (Director of the Warsaw Zoo) |
| Historical Role | Saved hundreds during WWII Nazi occupation |
| Recognition | Righteous Among the Nations (by Israel) |
Legacy and Recognition
Antonina Żabińska's story is a testament to extraordinary bravery and compassion in the face of immense danger. Her actions, along with her husband's, provided a lifeline to many persecuted individuals during one of history's darkest chapters. The recognition as "Righteous Among the Nations" is a profound honor bestowed upon non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. You can learn more about this significant recognition on the Yad Vashem website.
