Red Army propaganda leaflets in German urging Wehrmacht soldiers to surrender.

WORLD WAR II.

Published by [c.1941-1945]

About this Item

A substantial collection of Soviet aerial propaganda leaflets in German, dropped behind enemy lines to encourage surrender, most incorporating safe-conduct passes for presentation upon capitulation. These passes carry wording such as: "I, a German soldier, refuse to fight against Russian workers and peasants. I voluntarily surrender to the Red Army" (translated). Evocative imagery is used, such as one leaflet showing a skeleton in SS uniform pointing to a gravestone beneath the warning: "This is your place! You'll be next!" Many employ explicitly socialist appeals, urging German workers and peasants not to fight their fellow labourers on behalf of their oppressors. Others claim that numerous German generals have already surrendered, insist Germany's defeat is inevitable, and warn soldiers not to throw their lives away. Some point to overwhelming American war production as further proof that the war cannot be won. A recurring theme is the favourable treatment allegedly awaiting those who surrender. One leaflet depicts prisoners dining, with the caption: "The German prisoners of war are received by the Russians with a tasty, fatty and nutritious lunch", alongside the assurance: "All who surrender to the Red Army are guaranteed life, good treatment and to return home after the war ends" - an extraordinary claim, given that the death rate among German POWs in Soviet captivity has been estimated at roughly one third. 131 leaflets, varying sizes. Each leaflet in a removable mylar sleeve, housed together in a red cloth solander box. Some toning, else in excellent condition.

Seller Inventory # 191050

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Red Army propaganda leaflets in German urging Wehrmacht soldiers to surrender.
• Publisher: [c.1941-1945]