1. Retaliation from the Nazi Regime: Schindler's actions were in direct opposition to the Nazi's systematic extermination of Jews. If discovered, he risked severe repercussions from the Nazi authorities, including imprisonment, torture, and even execution.
2. Betrayal and Espionage: Schindler operated in a society rife with fear, suspicion, and potential informants. The constant risk of betrayal from within his own factory or from collaborators outside jeopardized his plans and put him in imminent danger.
3. Financial Challenges: Schindler faced significant financial challenges in sustaining his humanitarian efforts. He used personal funds, sold assets, and sought financial assistance from various sources to keep his factories running and provide for his employees. This made him vulnerable to potential fraud and exploitation.
4. Infiltration by Nazi Sympathizers: Schindler's factory was not immune to infiltration by Nazi loyalists or sympathizers who could have acted as informants or saboteurs. This required constant vigilance and discernment on Schindler's part.
5. Supply and Raw Material Shortages: Operating a factory during wartime presented difficulties in securing raw materials and supplies, especially in the face of resource allocation to the Nazi war effort. Schindler's ability to maintain production and protect his workers amidst scarcity posed a significant challenge.
6. Health Risks and Epidemics: Working in close quarters with a vulnerable population meant Schindler had to contend with health risks and potential epidemics. The threat of disease added another layer of concern and risk to his efforts.
7. Uncertainty of Success: Schindler's plan relied on deception, shrewd negotiation, and a degree of luck. The uncertainty surrounding the ultimate success of his endeavors and the fate of those he was trying to save was a constant source of psychological stress and emotional toll.
Despite the array of dangers he faced, Oskar Schindler's courage, ingenuity, and unwavering determination ultimately led to his success in saving over a thousand Jews from the horrors of the Holocaust.