Final answer:
The children were saved by New York City firefighters and an 'unknown Irishman' during a period of chaos. Such historical events, including the Holocaust and Kristallnacht, reflect the human capacity for both malevolence and heroism, with examples of individuals stepping up to help others in perilous times.
Step-by-step explanation:
The children mentioned in the excerpt were saved thanks to the work of New York City firefighters and an unidentified individual exemplified by the phrase in the quote, "unknown Irishman," who courageously called for help during a period of distress. The historical context of these events is surrounded by violence and chaos, as witnessed in the passages provided that illustrate the strife and perilous situations many faced during violent outbursts in history, such as the riots that unfolded towards Harlem and the manifestations of antisemitism and the Holocaust in Europe during World War II. The courage and selflessness of individuals such as the unknown Irishman and those who aided others in their darkest hours showcase humanities' capacity for both good and evil.
The Holocaust, itself a stark reminder of the severe consequences of hate and discrimination, is documented in personal records like Anne Frank's diary and extensively through German-kept records. The Kristallnacht, or the Night of Broken Glass, serves as a significant example of such atrocities, marking the beginning of an intensified period of violence and persecution against Jewish communities in Nazi Germany, which is also referenced in the passages provided. However, alongside the horrors, there were also acts of heroism and compassion, as seen in the efforts of many to shelter and protect Jews during the occupation.