England · Damning Evidence · Digital Exhibits - UWM Libraries Special Collections

As one of the Third Reich’s primary targets, England endured not only physical attacks from the German military, but psychological attacks as well. Literature produced during World War II in Germany represents Britain as a cold, unfeeling empire with cruel tendencies and imperialistic ideals.

As a result of the United Kingdom’s dominance as a world power, Hitler and the Nazi party viewed it as their duty to strip the British Empire of their worldly influence. Through virulent attacks and propaganda, German publishers worked to ensure that the German people would support the Nazis in their bombardment of Great Britain.

Wilhelm Ziegler & Heinz Medenfind
“Humanes” England?. Berlin: Im Deutschen Verlag, 1940.

This book provides an overview of the negative aspects of British colonialism. Facetious in nature, the title “Humanes” England? questions the civility of England and its interactions around the world. Presented are reports, facts, and eye-witness accounts from many locations, including India and Ireland, which support the German critique.

Höllenmaschinen aus England, hinter den kulissen der Londoner lügenhetze

Hermann Wanderscheck
Höllenmaschinen aus England. Berlin: E.S. Mittler & Sohn, 1940.

The term Höllenmaschinen was widely used throughout the 19th century to describe weaponry used by European powers and translates as “Hell machines.” This text describes British military power and illuminates the threat England posed Germany.