1. Classification (Stage 1) All cultures use categories to distinguish people Based on ethnicity, race, religion, or nationality (German, Jew, Muslim) Highly segregated societies have a high rate of genocide

2. Symbolization (Stage 2) Names and Symbols given to ethnicity, race, religion, etc. Distinguished by name, symbols, color, or dress Symbols are universally human Symbols may be forced on unwilling minorities

3. Dehumanization (Stage 3) Group treated as second class citizens May be compared to animals, insects, or disease (“villians”) Easier to murder someone who is “less than human”

4. Organization (Stage 4) Genocide always organized by government or terrorist groups Plans made in advance for genocidal killings

5. Polarization (Stage 5) Extremists drive groups apart Propaganda used to reinforce prejudice and hate Laws implemented often forbid interaction between groups Moderates/Educated often targeted

6. Preparation (Stage 6) Victims identified and separated based on identity Members forced to wear identifying symbols (Ex. Jewish Star of David) Segregated into ghettos(confined living quarters)

7. Extermination (Stage 7) Mass Killing “Extermination” term removes human face to victim Revenge Killings created “mutual genocide” (Shiites vs. Sunnis in Iraq)

8. Denial (Final Stage 8) Always follows genocide Criminals try to cover up evidence (dig up graves, intimidate witnesses, burn bodies, etc.) Deny crime, blame victims for the genocide Block investigations Leaders deny unless captured and tried