Holocaust Refugees in Virginia: The Story of the SS Quanza

A Lifeline from Darkness

More than a year before America entered World War II, a ship from Europe became one of the nation's first and closest experiences with the wickedness of the Holocaust. As war raged across their homeland, dozens of Jews boarded the SS Quanza in the summer of 1940, desperate to escape Nazi evil. Tragically, the United States barred their entry. When Mexico denied them as well, it seemed that they would become the next victims of the Holocaust. But a lucky stop in Norfolk, Virginia, saved their lives. Sallie and Jacob Morewitz, lawyers who had fought for the Jewish community for years, rushed into court on their behalf, and Jewish and pro-refugee groups rallied to their cause. Even Eleanor Roosevelt stepped in. After many defeats, America welcomed them to a new, safe life.

Award-winning journalist Jason Norman unfolds this remarkable story of deliverance.

Author: Jason Norman
Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: History Press
Published: 11/04/2025
Series: American Heritage
Pages: 112
Weight: 0.43lbs
Size: 8.94h x 6.16w x 0.29d
ISBN: 9781467159593