A large number of Jewish merchants have been arrested in Muenster and Essen and taken to concentration camps, accused of practising “economic sabotage.”
Nazi political police have also arrested many Jewish merchants and are holding them for trial on a similar charge. Merchants arrested include the prominent Jewish industrialist, Herr Dauz, of Muenster, and the Jewish proprietor of the Brunner photo company of Essen.
Many Jewish merchants and industrialists are now in a condition which places them between “the devil and the deep blue sea.” On the one hand, fearing unfounded charges of “sabotage,” they are anxious to liquidate their businesses altogether. On the other hand, such liquidation would result in new charges of dismissal of workers and employees, thus increasing unemployment.
Nazi authorities are waiting eagerly for such an opportunity to demonstrate to the workers the extent of the government’s solicitude for the care and protection of their interests.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
