Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Nazis Largely Rule Bavaria, Anti-semitism Flourishes in State, N.Y. Times Reports

December 1, 1949
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

The Nazis largely rule Bavaria and “although the extremist parties today do not mention anti-Semitism as party policy it flourishes throughout the state and can be called upon at need by the ambitious politician” the New York Times today stated in an article from Munich by its correspondent Drew Middleton. The article emphasized that the Germans are “cool” to democracy.

The “renazification” of Germany is also in full swing in the other provinces but in Bavaria it is “more open” and has “more outright” approval of the state government, Mr. Middleton established. Appended to his article is a compilation by the U.S. military government authorities estimating that at least $3 percent of the Germans employed in the provincial government are former Nazis.

Citing specific instances of resent anti-Semitic activity, the article says: “In Bayreuth the legend ‘Juda verreoke,’ which could be translated ‘Drop Dead, Jews,’ has appeared on walls. The Bavarians declare that the ‘Eastern’ Jewish displaced persons are ‘the worst criminals Germany over saw.’ In one community 101 persons were asked ‘Is there evidence of anti-Semitism in the district?’ Of the total 56 said ‘yes’ and 45 ‘no.’ In reply to a further question 45 said that anti-Semitism was neither decreasing nor increasing but was a constant force in the community.”

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement