Confidential report issued by Jewish Telegraph Agency.
Date
1939-03-06
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
2 copies. Comments on situation in Germany; most experts, Nazi and non-Nazi do not believe war imminent; several things working to keep peace - (1) precarious German economy, (2) needlessness of war when Reich's enemies already on run, and (3) Roosevelt's policy of wielding big stick; big questions to be settled in near future are Spain, Germany's colonies, and Italian claims; Austria not yet digested; in Vienna heard [Josef] Buerckel make plea to Viennese not to indulge in graft; asked American diplomat in Vienna if Austrians were justified in complaint that Prussians had been sent in to run the country; he replied that he wished there were more Prussians; any time he wanted something done he got in touch with the German in the department; corruption not limited to Austria; even some Nazis close to Hitler involved in scandals; talked with American diplomat in Berlin who expressed view that (1) agreement [George] Rublee made with Nazis was best Nazis could be expected to offer (2) that the Nazis would live up to what they promised, (3) American Jewry should cooperate with plan, and (4) Germany has learned to respect America and Ambassador [Hugh R.] Wilson should return to his post; Jewish leaders despondent; evidence that Germans mean to press Jewish question to quick solution by emigration of bulk of German Jewry; in meantime, move to segregate Jews into ghettos continuing; some Jews still wealthy, on the books, but doubtful that Nazis will allow them to liquidate their holdings; Jewish wealth now non-productive and in time will be used up if not confiscated first; Austrian Jewry in different situation; asked Jewish leader in Vienna whether it was likely Austrian Jews would be able to transfer property out of Austria and was told they no longer had anything to transfer; America's role in helping to save German Jewry appreciated, but German leaders cannot understand U.S. quota system; consular visa departments crowded with applicants who would be acceptable immigrants to U.S. but are shut out for two, three, or four years; American Jews loyal and generous, but to German Jews, a little too militant; "every time a Jew in America makes a face at Hitler, German Jews shiver in their boots," because Nazis take their revenge on them; three courses open to American Jews, (1) say nothing and concentrate on getting Jews out of Germany, (2) fight back with all their strength on clear-cut Jewish issues, or (3) soft pedal Jewish issue and join forces, not as Jews, but as Americans with liberal elements everywhere in fight against Facism.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.