Why were the Jewish people persecuted so severely in and around the time of WW2?

One of my best friends is Jewish and I was just wondering. She is a great friend and a wonderful person.

everyone loves a good scapegoat. THe Jews of Europe have been scapegoat es for almost 1000 years. The economic situation as well as the pride of Germany was at an all time low after losing WW1. It made sense to monopolize on people's preconceived notions and prejudices. As well, Hitler was surrounded by staunch antisemitism who have been waiting for the perfect opportunity to eradicate the Jews (Much like the Neo-Cons in the States that have been waiting for the opportunity to start the new endless war, the war on terror to replace to war on communism)!

I always wondered that to. Why did the Germans hate them so much?

Like Duh said they were largely scapegoats in the minds of the avg German as hilt er rose in power. It is halters rise which fuels it.It is be lived he is part Jewish. His mother died when he was 18 and he be lived it was the Jewish doctors who helped kill her. His time living in Austria also pushed his anti-Semites.
He served in the war, and had blamed the loss on the Jews and Marxist. He surround himself with anit-semits as well.

I think that this website might help you.

http://www.wiesenthal.com/site/pp.asp?c=fwLYKnN8LzH&b=242023

I will probably get suspended, but it will be worth it.