Reina Prinsen Geerligs, a young Dutch woman who lived a brief but impactful life, is remembered as a symbol of resistance and sacrifice during World War II. Born on October 7, 1922, Semarang, Dutch East Indies,(Indonesia nowadays)Reina’s early life was characterized by intellectual promise and a deep sense of justice. Her contributions to the Dutch resistance against Nazi occupation and her untimely death at the age of 21 have cemented her legacy as an enduring inspiration for courage in the face of tyranny.
Early Life and Education
Reina grew up in a cultured and intellectually inclined family in Amsterdam, where they moved shortly after she was born. She attended the Barlaeus Gymnasium, a prestigious secondary school that encouraged critical thinking and creative expression. Reina showed particular talent in writing and literature, displaying a precocious intellect and a passion for storytelling. Her environment and education nurtured a strong moral compass, which later guided her in resisting Nazi oppression.
Despite the challenges of her time, Reina’s youth was marked by a sense of idealism and hope for a better world. The German invasion of the Netherlands in May 1940 marked a turning point in her life, transforming her aspirations from personal growth to a broader commitment to fighting for freedom and justice.
Involvement in the Resistance
The Nazi occupation of the Netherlands brought harsh repression, including the persecution of Jewish citizens and the suppression of free expression. Reina, along with many other young people, was deeply affected by the injustices she witnessed. Determined to take action, she joined the Dutch resistance, a network of individuals and groups working covertly to undermine Nazi control.
She joined the CS-6 resistance group.The name may originate from the address where the group was founded: Corellistraat 6 in Amsterdam. The group targeted Dutch collaborators and Nazi officials. Notably, they assassinated General Hendrik Seyffardt, head of the Dutch SS Legion, and Assistant Minister Reydon.
Reina’s contributions to the resistance were significant. She participated in distributing anti-Nazi leaflets, which were a critical tool in spreading information and countering Nazi propaganda. These leaflets served as a lifeline of truth for many Dutch citizens living under occupation. Additionally, she was involved in forging documents to help Jews and other persecuted individuals evade capture and escape to safety.
Operating within the resistance required immense bravery. The risks were high, as discovery often led to torture, deportation, or execution. Reina’s courage and unwavering commitment to the cause were evident in her willingness to undertake such dangerous tasks. Her actions reflected not only her moral strength but also her belief in the power of collective resistance.
Arrest and Execution
In 1943, Reina’s resistance activities caught the attention of the Nazi authorities. She was arrested and subjected to interrogation, but she refused to betray her comrades. Her steadfastness in the face of torture highlighted her remarkable fortitude and dedication to her ideals.
In November 1943 she and some other members of the resistance group were transported to Sachsenhausen concentration camp, where they were executed November 24,1943
She was just 21 years old. Her death was a devastating loss, but her memory lived on as a testament to the resilience and bravery of those who stood against tyranny.
Legacy
Reina Prinsen Geerligs’ life and sacrifice have been commemorated in various ways. In 1945, a literary award named the Reina Prinsen Geerligs Award was established in her honor. This prize, which celebrated the work of young Dutch writers, reflected her passion for literature and her belief in the power of words to inspire change. The award was given annually until 1979, encouraging a new generation to pursue creative expression and intellectual inquiry.
Reina’s story continues to resonate as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals during World War II. She represents the countless young people who, despite their youth, chose to stand up against oppression at great personal risk. Her life serves as a powerful example of how ordinary individuals can exhibit extraordinary courage in extraordinary circumstances.
So that you will go better, so that you will understand better, what it means to be human.
Reina Prinsen Geerligs’ legacy is one of bravery, intellect, and moral conviction. Her contributions to the Dutch resistance and her ultimate sacrifice remind us of the profound impact one person can have in the fight for justice and freedom. Though her life was tragically cut short, Reina’s story endures as a beacon of hope and a call to action for future generations to resist injustice in all its forms. Her name remains a testament to the power of youth, idealism, and courage in shaping a better world.
sources
https://resources.huygens.knaw.nl/vrouwenlexicon/lemmata/data/Prinsen_Geerligs
https://www.tracesofwar.com/sights/80087/Memorial-Reina-Prinsen-Geerligs-Amsterdam.htm
https://oorlogsgravenstichting.nl/personen/123698/reina-prinsen-geerligs
https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=204286
https://www.oorlogsbronnen.nl/tijdlijn/9fd3e4b1-a4e6-4e61-bc91-7d2ba8d536fe
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