Cruelty, fear, and deprivation characterized daily life inside Nazi concentration camps. Life was very strenuous and each little detail of the daily routine made a difference. Normally insignificant matters such as acquisition of a sewing needle or a pair of shoelaces became a difficult problem. Small comforts such as a better-positioned bunk assumed great importance and could lead to terrible quarreling. The overcrowding and constant inspections left no moment for quiet reflection and resulted in much tension and friction. Especially shaken were the older people whose long and productive lives were shattered. Their losses and degraded condition caused acute suffering and for many, eroded their will to go on. Yet many prisoners carried on with a resolute determination to survive.

Zahl Appell : The Dreaded Roll Call

The hardship and distress of the daily roll call was an example of the constant oppressive treatment prisoners...