The news announcing that Peru's 4-2 victory in soccer over Austria was ruled out by the International Football Federation in Berlin caused indignant crowds to assemble here as well as in Port Callao today to protest the decision.
As soon as the report was received, crowds running in the thousands congregated at the principal newspaper offices to await further information. The local Olympic Committee immediately took up the matter with the President of the Republic, Oscar Benavides, who instructed the committee to withdraw its delegation from the Olympic Games.
Then a shouting crowd started a march to the palace, the thousands in line clogging traffic and pausing en route to tear down the Olympic flag which was flying from the business house, the German manager of which is the Austrian consul here. The arrival of police prevented further damage.
Booing, whistling, yelling and shouting, the demonstrators reached the main square, the Plaza de Armas, where they were joined by others from the Newspaper offices. When they arrived in front of the palace, they urged the President to appear.
Accompanied by Ministers of State and military aides, President Benavides appeared and listened to the speeches. In reply, he said: "I have received cables from the Argentine, Chile, Uraguay and Mexico solidifying the Peruvian attitude against the crafty Berlin decision".
The President further recommended that the demonstrators bind themselves clamly not to imitate the unsportsmanlike Berlin decision. The President of the local games committee read the cables sent and received to the crowd, including cables from the Austrian consul and the local Nazi representative in which reconsideration of the International Federation's decision was asked.
Singing the National Anthem, the crowd continued its demonstration along the main street, where it gained further supporters. With the Chilean, Argentine, Uraguayan and Ecuadorian flags accompanying that of Peru, the crowd surged toward the Plaze San Martin, were it was addressed by various speakers.
Reforming its ranks the crowd later marched to the German consulate where is stoned windows in protest. Police arriving in trucks peacefully managed to get the crowd to disperse.
Stevedores did not work for two hours on the two vessels at Callao, the German Ammon and the Norwegian Remulus, as an act of protest, while various hundreds paraded in the streets there protesting and voicing their indignation. The Police meanwhile guarded the German Consulate.
The Afternoon papers bitterly attacked the federation's decision in the editorials. One said :"It lacks basis as a reason, the Austrians' only pretext was to eliminate the team which had a good chance to win and thereby see its national flag wave from the scene of operations."
The whole press praises the gesture of the Latin American delegations in meeting in Berlin to support the Peruvians. All is quiet here now.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Differences in Demeanor
Never has Berlin seen so many polyglot visitors. Every hotel is crowded beyond normal capacity and all its best known restaurants spend most of the dinner hour turning them away because there are no more seats.
Conversation in Adlon Hall at Tea Hour is reminiscent of Babel, with English running German hard as the predominant tongue and the Polish, Czech and Scandinavian Languages drowning out the customary Continental French.
English beyond doubt if the Latin of the modern world. In the press box at the Olympic Stadium and at most of the information offices more English is spoken than German. Yet in comparison with the crowds of Scandinavians, who make up the largest part of the foreign contingent, relatively few Englishmen or American are here. The Scandinavians, however, seem to get along better in English than anything else.
Scandinavians in the stands have adopted American cheering tactics and shout "Rah! Rah! Rah!" in unison.
Anybody interested in his fellowmen has been able to get a kick out of noting the difference of these foreign visitors. There is a good deal of truth in a familiar story which purports to classify national characteristics under such circumstances.
The Frenchman enters a hotel looking around with a general air indicating he would like to own it.
The German walks in looking as though some day he expects to own it.
The Englishman strolls in as though he does indeed own it.
The American goes in with the general air which seems to say he doesn't give a damn who owns it.
Conversation in Adlon Hall at Tea Hour is reminiscent of Babel, with English running German hard as the predominant tongue and the Polish, Czech and Scandinavian Languages drowning out the customary Continental French.
English beyond doubt if the Latin of the modern world. In the press box at the Olympic Stadium and at most of the information offices more English is spoken than German. Yet in comparison with the crowds of Scandinavians, who make up the largest part of the foreign contingent, relatively few Englishmen or American are here. The Scandinavians, however, seem to get along better in English than anything else.
Scandinavians in the stands have adopted American cheering tactics and shout "Rah! Rah! Rah!" in unison.
Anybody interested in his fellowmen has been able to get a kick out of noting the difference of these foreign visitors. There is a good deal of truth in a familiar story which purports to classify national characteristics under such circumstances.
The Frenchman enters a hotel looking around with a general air indicating he would like to own it.
The German walks in looking as though some day he expects to own it.
The Englishman strolls in as though he does indeed own it.
The American goes in with the general air which seems to say he doesn't give a damn who owns it.
Wednesday, August 9, 2006
The Marathon and Women's Relay
Even the sun came out today for the climax of the 1936 Olympics today. Under a cloudless sky Summer sky, a record crowd gathered for the marathon, the most widely advertised Olympic event, and the relays - always full of uncertainty and thrills. To come down to it, the marathon was rather a disappointment from the spectators' seats simply because it could not be seen.
Only the grand finale, the reappearance of the first weary runner, is perhaps worth the price of a ticket. The first runner was not even weary. Kitei Son of Japan came jogging into the stadium as fresh as a daisy.
In the midst of all the gaiety, black despair settled on the generally vociferous German crowd.
The German women's relay team, the pride of the Fatherland, established a new world record for the 400-meter race yesterday, had been running again today in top form. The jubilant crowd sure of another gold medal and in high holday mood, was thrown down from its emotional pinnacle which it could not recover for the remainder of the afternoon.
A fast runner dropped the baton as it was being passed and the Germans had to drop out of the race. The Führer who was watching in his customary box, slapped his thigh in frustration. The girls proved they were after all, genuine women and not just feminine athletes by having hysterics on the field. With tears rolling down their cheeks there were taken up to Hitler's box, where he consoled them as best he could, assuring them he knew they would have won.
Apart from the question of whether they would have won, which can be disputed, they had the crowd with them. A bond of human sympathy with the four young people who had experienced the most atrocious bad luck united the more than 100,000 in attendance.
Only the grand finale, the reappearance of the first weary runner, is perhaps worth the price of a ticket. The first runner was not even weary. Kitei Son of Japan came jogging into the stadium as fresh as a daisy.
In the midst of all the gaiety, black despair settled on the generally vociferous German crowd.
The German women's relay team, the pride of the Fatherland, established a new world record for the 400-meter race yesterday, had been running again today in top form. The jubilant crowd sure of another gold medal and in high holday mood, was thrown down from its emotional pinnacle which it could not recover for the remainder of the afternoon.A fast runner dropped the baton as it was being passed and the Germans had to drop out of the race. The Führer who was watching in his customary box, slapped his thigh in frustration. The girls proved they were after all, genuine women and not just feminine athletes by having hysterics on the field. With tears rolling down their cheeks there were taken up to Hitler's box, where he consoled them as best he could, assuring them he knew they would have won.
Apart from the question of whether they would have won, which can be disputed, they had the crowd with them. A bond of human sympathy with the four young people who had experienced the most atrocious bad luck united the more than 100,000 in attendance.
Norway beat Germany 2-0
Gloom pervaded the German morning papers today over the event in the Post Stadium yesterday where in the presence of Chancellor Hitler, Germany's Soccer team lost to Norway, 2-0.
"How could this happen?" the sports press cries bewildered. Germany's hopes actually centered on winning the gold medal in this event. With the crack Uraguayan team out the competition, they figured themselves the Olympics' best. Norway, on the other hand, was figured as a minor contender.
So sure was Germany of victory that Hitler for the first time failed to appear in the Olympic Stadium. All German victor until now have told the German press in interviews that they thing only of the Führer when competing and outdo themselves when he's there to watch.
"How could this happen?" the sports press cries bewildered. Germany's hopes actually centered on winning the gold medal in this event. With the crack Uraguayan team out the competition, they figured themselves the Olympics' best. Norway, on the other hand, was figured as a minor contender.
So sure was Germany of victory that Hitler for the first time failed to appear in the Olympic Stadium. All German victor until now have told the German press in interviews that they thing only of the Führer when competing and outdo themselves when he's there to watch.
Tuesday, August 8, 2006
Jews allowed to fly German Flag
Not since the Nuremburg Laws were passed last September have Jews been allowed to fly the German flag.. However, these Olympics have given them the opportunity to display banners of some kind over their houses and businesses.
The prohibition still holds but there is nothing to stop them from flying the German flag. They are glad to do so rather than draw attention to their shops and homes by leaving them bare in the streets otherwise plenteously adorned with bunting. One department store in the west end carried whole rows of the Olympic banners. Some others have added symposiums of flags of the Olympic nations all except the swastika - without objection.
The practice has the advantage, from the German viewpoint, of saving foreign guests the of puzzling over empty flagpoles until they divine the real reason and thereby reminded of the German official race prejudice.
The prohibition still holds but there is nothing to stop them from flying the German flag. They are glad to do so rather than draw attention to their shops and homes by leaving them bare in the streets otherwise plenteously adorned with bunting. One department store in the west end carried whole rows of the Olympic banners. Some others have added symposiums of flags of the Olympic nations all except the swastika - without objection.
The practice has the advantage, from the German viewpoint, of saving foreign guests the of puzzling over empty flagpoles until they divine the real reason and thereby reminded of the German official race prejudice.
Monday, August 7, 2006
Racism at the Games
The victories of the Negroes of the American Olympic team are the sensation of Europe. how thoroughly the Olympic spirit has spread here is seen in the fact that to date only the Nazi newspaper Angriff has spoken of them dispairingly, and only in the government box has there been other presumptive evidence of racial feeling.
of course, carious countries react in various ways. The French are loudly enthusiastic about the Negroes' accomplishments. The English, guided perhaps by imperial considerations, are somewhat cool and inclined to depreciate their presence. The South Africans openly deprecate it.
On the other hand, the German team is ostensibly friendly. Something like a Damon and Pythias friendship has sprung up between Lutz Long, German star and Jesse Owens, outstanding member of the American team.
What may be called the social success of the American Negroes largely is due to the their own tact. They are perfectly aware threre is a race prejudice in the air and they carefully avoid places where they might not be welcome.
It should be added, however, that since his defeat by John Woodruff, Mario Lanzi, sensational Italian middle distance runner, has introduced some racial feeling in the Italian team. Lanzi's final spurt in the 800-meter race two days ago was spoiled because the two Negro leaders, Phil Edwards of Canada and Woodruff, refused to yield him the inside lane. The Italian seems to be possessed by the idea he had a right to this lane, although there is nothing in the rules entitling him to it.
Enthusiasm for the Negro contingent centers mainly around Owens. None of the others enjoys anything approaching his popularity. The German press calls Owens the super-athlete of these Games. Long has expressed the view that with more training Owens could jump 7.5 meters easily.
In private conversation the Germans tell each other that the Negro race is extraordinarily adept at running because of a certain peculiar conformation of their bones. They do, however, have the good sense to scoff at English reports that American runners have undergone certain operations on their legs to increase their speed
of course, carious countries react in various ways. The French are loudly enthusiastic about the Negroes' accomplishments. The English, guided perhaps by imperial considerations, are somewhat cool and inclined to depreciate their presence. The South Africans openly deprecate it.
On the other hand, the German team is ostensibly friendly. Something like a Damon and Pythias friendship has sprung up between Lutz Long, German star and Jesse Owens, outstanding member of the American team.
What may be called the social success of the American Negroes largely is due to the their own tact. They are perfectly aware threre is a race prejudice in the air and they carefully avoid places where they might not be welcome.
It should be added, however, that since his defeat by John Woodruff, Mario Lanzi, sensational Italian middle distance runner, has introduced some racial feeling in the Italian team. Lanzi's final spurt in the 800-meter race two days ago was spoiled because the two Negro leaders, Phil Edwards of Canada and Woodruff, refused to yield him the inside lane. The Italian seems to be possessed by the idea he had a right to this lane, although there is nothing in the rules entitling him to it.
Enthusiasm for the Negro contingent centers mainly around Owens. None of the others enjoys anything approaching his popularity. The German press calls Owens the super-athlete of these Games. Long has expressed the view that with more training Owens could jump 7.5 meters easily.
In private conversation the Germans tell each other that the Negro race is extraordinarily adept at running because of a certain peculiar conformation of their bones. They do, however, have the good sense to scoff at English reports that American runners have undergone certain operations on their legs to increase their speed
Salvation Army in Berlin
The Salvation Army is not missing the opportunity to put on a campaign in Berlin. They are making a drive for funds from charitable Germans and foreign guests alike.
The Olympics are international and so is the Salvation Army. Germany is at least internationally minded until August 16th.
The Olympics are international and so is the Salvation Army. Germany is at least internationally minded until August 16th.
Eleanor Holm Jarrett isn't competing in Berlin?
Eleanor Holm Jarrett went for a sight-seeing stroll with a friend, met onetime Crown Prince Friedrich Wilhelm Viktor August Ernst at Netherlands Palace. Swimmer Jarrett reported that the onetime Crown Prince had sent her flowers. In New York, her husband, Crooner Art Jarrett, suddenly took ship for Germany.
The American Public and many sports fans worldwide would expect
Mrs. Jarrett to be in the Swimming Pool competing in the backstroke. She was suspended from the American team for setting a bad example in getting intoxicated while on the transatlantic voyage to Europe.
Mrs. Jarrett has said of her suspension, which came as a surprise to the Champion of the 1932 Los Angeles Games, this:
The American Public and many sports fans worldwide would expect
Mrs. Jarrett to be in the Swimming Pool competing in the backstroke. She was suspended from the American team for setting a bad example in getting intoxicated while on the transatlantic voyage to Europe.Mrs. Jarrett has said of her suspension, which came as a surprise to the Champion of the 1932 Los Angeles Games, this:
This chaperone came up to me and told me it was time to go to bed. God, it was about 9 o'clock, and who wanted to go down in that basement to sleep anyway? So I said to her: `Oh, is it really bedtime? Did you make the Olympic team or did I?' I had had a few glasses of Champagne. So she went to Brundage and complained that I was setting a bad example for the team, and they got together and told me the next morning that I was fired. I was heartbroken.Avery Brundage, the Team Leader, has not commented on this. Holm's Olympic teammates petitioned unsuccessfully to overturn the suspension.
Sunday, August 6, 2006
Owens wins third medal
By winning the 200-meter dash, Jesse Owens became the fourth American to capture three or more championships in on Olympic event.
He joined the heroic company of Alvin Kraenzlein, who won four events in 1900; Ray Ewry, who swept three standing jumps twice: 1900 & 1904.; and Archie Hahn, triple sprint winner in 1904.
Chancellor Hitler was driven from his box by a heavy downpour of rain that occurred just after Owens flashed across the finish line for his third triumph and wasn't among the thousands of die-hards who remained and thundered acclaim when he stepped up for the third time to be crowned with a laurel wreath and given his third gold medal and oak tree, which will be planted on Ohio State's Campus.
He joined the heroic company of Alvin Kraenzlein, who won four events in 1900; Ray Ewry, who swept three standing jumps twice: 1900 & 1904.; and Archie Hahn, triple sprint winner in 1904.
Chancellor Hitler was driven from his box by a heavy downpour of rain that occurred just after Owens flashed across the finish line for his third triumph and wasn't among the thousands of die-hards who remained and thundered acclaim when he stepped up for the third time to be crowned with a laurel wreath and given his third gold medal and oak tree, which will be planted on Ohio State's Campus.
Stephens wins Women's 100-meter dash
Miss Helen Stephens, after winning the 100-meter race for women yesterday, was received by Chancellor Hitler and congratulated on her success. Then she went back to the women discus throwers to her turn for the United States.
Miss Stephens had been in the discus competition before the start of the 100 meters. She just dropped out for a few minutes to win the gold medal in time just 1/10 of a second behind her world record established the day before.
Miss Stephens had been in the discus competition before the start of the 100 meters. She just dropped out for a few minutes to win the gold medal in time just 1/10 of a second behind her world record established the day before.
Military Guard adds to Olympic pageantry
There are three companies of the military guards marching around the Berlin streets daily during the Olympics. Normally, only Field Marshal Werner von Blomberg, as War Minister, rates a guard company for his military. It stages a parade with bands daily when the guards change.
But the procession down Unter den Linden has proved such an attraction to the crowd that two more guard changes now are put on for the satisfaction of the Olympic visitors.
The second of the three companies is a guard for the headquarters of the Berlin command which is at the foor of the Unter den Linden opposite the old imperial palace. The third id Colonel-General Hermann Göring's own gray-coated company for the Air Ministry, called the Luftwaffe here.
To see not only little boys but their daddies, rotund, solid burghers, all marching alongside the soldiers is to gain a little understanding of the Third Reich.
But the procession down Unter den Linden has proved such an attraction to the crowd that two more guard changes now are put on for the satisfaction of the Olympic visitors.
The second of the three companies is a guard for the headquarters of the Berlin command which is at the foor of the Unter den Linden opposite the old imperial palace. The third id Colonel-General Hermann Göring's own gray-coated company for the Air Ministry, called the Luftwaffe here.
To see not only little boys but their daddies, rotund, solid burghers, all marching alongside the soldiers is to gain a little understanding of the Third Reich.
Berlin Weather changes for the gloomy
Luck in the matter of the weather, which has been all on the side of the Nazis since they obtained power in Germany, seems to have failed them in these Olympics. Until now it has almost assured that for any big German fete day the weather would be ideal.
Only once in the last three years did the weather fail them. That was the memorable May Day last year when the snow flurries and a biting wind spoiled for more than a million persons at Tempelhof the effect of Hitler's speech. The labor demonstration by the masses on May Day was not so much emphasized this year.
But that was an exception. All the other big Nazi shows have had blue skies in the their favor until these Olympics, upon the success of which the régime sets so much store. Ever since they begain it has rained in Berlin daily after the fashion of April transposed to August.
Yet, even after that, the weather gods seem to have tried to be as kind as possible. Today, while it was raining heavily in the city so that hundreds were discouraged from going to the games, hardly a drop fell on the stadium before the games closed. in fact, wet weather has not greatly hampered the tests themselves.
Since the games began it has begun to rain with clocklike regularity a few minutes after 6 PM when the last major event was just over. It also rains regularly during the noon recess from 12 to 3.
The attendance keeps up just the same. On the first day of the games, 86 special trains arrived in Berlin with 52,000 passengers and 95,000 more passengers came on regular trains. The second day53 special trains brought 27,000 passengers and the regular trains, 91,000. Figures for later days are unavailable at this time, but it is quite certain the influx is keeping up, if it is not necessarily increasing.
Only once in the last three years did the weather fail them. That was the memorable May Day last year when the snow flurries and a biting wind spoiled for more than a million persons at Tempelhof the effect of Hitler's speech. The labor demonstration by the masses on May Day was not so much emphasized this year.
But that was an exception. All the other big Nazi shows have had blue skies in the their favor until these Olympics, upon the success of which the régime sets so much store. Ever since they begain it has rained in Berlin daily after the fashion of April transposed to August.
Yet, even after that, the weather gods seem to have tried to be as kind as possible. Today, while it was raining heavily in the city so that hundreds were discouraged from going to the games, hardly a drop fell on the stadium before the games closed. in fact, wet weather has not greatly hampered the tests themselves.
Since the games began it has begun to rain with clocklike regularity a few minutes after 6 PM when the last major event was just over. It also rains regularly during the noon recess from 12 to 3.
The attendance keeps up just the same. On the first day of the games, 86 special trains arrived in Berlin with 52,000 passengers and 95,000 more passengers came on regular trains. The second day53 special trains brought 27,000 passengers and the regular trains, 91,000. Figures for later days are unavailable at this time, but it is quite certain the influx is keeping up, if it is not necessarily increasing.
Saturday, August 5, 2006
Television
Television halls accommodating 3,000 have been opened throughout Berlin where one may view the Olympic Games. Unfortunately, the results are very close to zero.
You cannot see Olympics by television yet. All that you can are some men dressed like athletes but only faintly distinguishable, like humans floating in a milk bath. Only the polo games show up fairly clearly when black or chestnut ponies are used. All white objects are divined, rather than seen, as vague blurs in a milky mess.
There are three television "guns" on the Olympic Field and two television vans covering events outside the stadium. Witleben station sends the pictures by the two transmitters to eighteen separate halls and rooms. The largest holds 300 spectators, but television is not yet sufficiently developed to handle successfully such a difficult project as covering the Olympics.
Athletes who stay in the Olympic Village because the y have competitions scheduled for the following day get a chance - for what it's worth - to see the games via television, for a special theatre has been set up for them in Hindenburg Assembly Hall.
Radio is till the most reliable transmitter of Olympic results. Twenty transmitting vans are put at the disposal of the foreign media along with 300 microphones. Radio broadcasts at the Olympics are given in 28 different languages.
You cannot see Olympics by television yet. All that you can are some men dressed like athletes but only faintly distinguishable, like humans floating in a milk bath. Only the polo games show up fairly clearly when black or chestnut ponies are used. All white objects are divined, rather than seen, as vague blurs in a milky mess.
There are three television "guns" on the Olympic Field and two television vans covering events outside the stadium. Witleben station sends the pictures by the two transmitters to eighteen separate halls and rooms. The largest holds 300 spectators, but television is not yet sufficiently developed to handle successfully such a difficult project as covering the Olympics.
Athletes who stay in the Olympic Village because the y have competitions scheduled for the following day get a chance - for what it's worth - to see the games via television, for a special theatre has been set up for them in Hindenburg Assembly Hall.
Radio is till the most reliable transmitter of Olympic results. Twenty transmitting vans are put at the disposal of the foreign media along with 300 microphones. Radio broadcasts at the Olympics are given in 28 different languages.
Control & language at the Games
The Olympic Organization Committee has announced that the results of the games cannot continue to be broadcast in three languages because it would take so much time that the broadcasters would be going all the time and spoil the show.
On the whole this is rather lucky. It was tried yesterday in the stadium, but the Americans found they understood German better than the variety of English used by the announcer.
The real control of the games is in the hands of the so-called International Olympic Committee. This body is composed of five noblemen and only two commoners. European aristocracy always has had a stranglehold on the Olympics as they were founded by Baron Pierre de Coubertin. The five all-powerful aristocrats here today are Count Henri de Baillet-Latour of Belgium, Baron Godefrey de Bloney of Switzerland, the Marquis de Polignac of France, Lord Aberdare of England and Count Bonaccosa of Italy.
The list of seventy-one members of the International Committee as a whole is rich with the names of titled sportsmen form all nations are preceded by Excellence or General.
On the whole this is rather lucky. It was tried yesterday in the stadium, but the Americans found they understood German better than the variety of English used by the announcer.
The real control of the games is in the hands of the so-called International Olympic Committee. This body is composed of five noblemen and only two commoners. European aristocracy always has had a stranglehold on the Olympics as they were founded by Baron Pierre de Coubertin. The five all-powerful aristocrats here today are Count Henri de Baillet-Latour of Belgium, Baron Godefrey de Bloney of Switzerland, the Marquis de Polignac of France, Lord Aberdare of England and Count Bonaccosa of Italy.
The list of seventy-one members of the International Committee as a whole is rich with the names of titled sportsmen form all nations are preceded by Excellence or General.
Owens wins Broad Jump
The Broad Jump had been one of the events of Owens' three in this eleventh Olympics that he had been most certain of winning. Lutz Long, so unheralded in German sporting circles for he is neither a soldier nor a policeman, tied Owens at 7.87 meters with his two leaps remaining. He forced Owens to catapult out near his own new world record of 26' 8 ½" in order to emerge victorious at all yesterday.
So delighted was Chancellor Hitler by the gallant fight that Long had made that he congratulated him privately just before he himself left the stadium. In fact, his eagerness to receive the youthful German was so great that the Führer condescended to wait until his emissaries had pried Long loose from Owens, with whom he was affectionately walking along the track arm and arm in what could be called friendship. All Owens received was his gold medal which probably satisfied him just fine.
The broad jump was one of the most dramatic events of the entire day, surprising as that may sound. It started with the unusual flourish and ended the same way. In the morning the leapers had to beat 23' 5" to qualify.
Owens strolled over to the runway and, still in his pullovers, raced to the pit and tan right through, a customary warm-up gesture. But the red flag was raised greatly to the Buckeye Bullet's astonishment. That counted as one of three jumps. On his second try, which he made in earnest, Jesse hit the take-off board cleanly and sailed through the air. Again the red flag was waved for some mysterious reason.
The situation was getting to be alarming by this time. Owens had only one more jump left to stay in the competition. So, on his last attempt, he sprinted carefully, left the ground with a half foot clearance at the take-off and went past 25' safely.
In the afternoon, Owens had close call of that nature. The pressure came from Long. The German, carried along on the wings of superhuman endeavor - the hallmark of every Reich athlete in this meet - was bounding along right at Owens' heels. He was only an inch behind the American's 7.87 meters as they went for their last three jumps.
On his second in the final,
Long hit the nail exactly on the head, doing the same distance as the Ohioan and tying him for the championship as the crowd went into frenzied ecstasy of applause. But the jubilation was short-lived.
Owens came thundering down the runway and drove into space a moment later. He had taken the play away at 7.94 meters and then drove beyond Long's reach with his final jump that cemented the distinction of his becoming the first 26-footer in Olympic history. Incidentally, the German in second place also surpassed the Olympic record.
So delighted was Chancellor Hitler by the gallant fight that Long had made that he congratulated him privately just before he himself left the stadium. In fact, his eagerness to receive the youthful German was so great that the Führer condescended to wait until his emissaries had pried Long loose from Owens, with whom he was affectionately walking along the track arm and arm in what could be called friendship. All Owens received was his gold medal which probably satisfied him just fine.The broad jump was one of the most dramatic events of the entire day, surprising as that may sound. It started with the unusual flourish and ended the same way. In the morning the leapers had to beat 23' 5" to qualify.
Owens strolled over to the runway and, still in his pullovers, raced to the pit and tan right through, a customary warm-up gesture. But the red flag was raised greatly to the Buckeye Bullet's astonishment. That counted as one of three jumps. On his second try, which he made in earnest, Jesse hit the take-off board cleanly and sailed through the air. Again the red flag was waved for some mysterious reason.
The situation was getting to be alarming by this time. Owens had only one more jump left to stay in the competition. So, on his last attempt, he sprinted carefully, left the ground with a half foot clearance at the take-off and went past 25' safely.
In the afternoon, Owens had close call of that nature. The pressure came from Long. The German, carried along on the wings of superhuman endeavor - the hallmark of every Reich athlete in this meet - was bounding along right at Owens' heels. He was only an inch behind the American's 7.87 meters as they went for their last three jumps.
On his second in the final,
Long hit the nail exactly on the head, doing the same distance as the Ohioan and tying him for the championship as the crowd went into frenzied ecstasy of applause. But the jubilation was short-lived.Owens came thundering down the runway and drove into space a moment later. He had taken the play away at 7.94 meters and then drove beyond Long's reach with his final jump that cemented the distinction of his becoming the first 26-footer in Olympic history. Incidentally, the German in second place also surpassed the Olympic record.
Friday, August 4, 2006
Big Medal Haul for US
The United States stole away what to date had been a distinctly German show by winning four out of five medal events today. On the third day, a crowd of 90,000 gathered for the morning preliminaries, and once again another capacity throng of 110,ooo later packed the Reich Sports Field Stadium. They came to cheer for mare German victories, but remained instead to turn their hosannas in the direction of the Americans.
The invincible Jesse Owens of Ohio won the broad jump at the Olympic record distance of 8.06 meters (26' 5 21/64"). Miss Stephens walked off with the Women's 100-meter dash final in world record time. Glenn Hardin slammed to the victory in the 400-meter hurdles, and John woodruff, a freshman from the University of Pittsburgh, gave America its first 800-meter triumph in twenty-four years.
Topping the achievement of the Star-Spangled Brigade, Owens twice broke the world 200-meter mark around the turn, as well as the Olympic standard, hitting the identical figures of 21.1 seconds in both trials.
The only championship to evade the Americans' grasp was the women's discus crown. And that went to Germany as Miss Gisela Mauermayer broke the Olympic record with a toss of 47.63 meters amid the exuberant shouts of her compatriots.
But Germany's share in the harvest was a relatively minor one. The United States closed so far ahead in the race for men's track and field championship that every one else is lapped at least a full circuit beyond.
The invincible Jesse Owens of Ohio won the broad jump at the Olympic record distance of 8.06 meters (26' 5 21/64"). Miss Stephens walked off with the Women's 100-meter dash final in world record time. Glenn Hardin slammed to the victory in the 400-meter hurdles, and John woodruff, a freshman from the University of Pittsburgh, gave America its first 800-meter triumph in twenty-four years.
Topping the achievement of the Star-Spangled Brigade, Owens twice broke the world 200-meter mark around the turn, as well as the Olympic standard, hitting the identical figures of 21.1 seconds in both trials.
The only championship to evade the Americans' grasp was the women's discus crown. And that went to Germany as Miss Gisela Mauermayer broke the Olympic record with a toss of 47.63 meters amid the exuberant shouts of her compatriots.
But Germany's share in the harvest was a relatively minor one. The United States closed so far ahead in the race for men's track and field championship that every one else is lapped at least a full circuit beyond.
Americans go 1-2 in 100-Meter dash
Jesse Owens won the 100-meter dash in what seemed a date with destiny. The Buckeye Bullet beat his nearest competitor, Ralph Metcalfe of Marquette University, by a single yard. The winning time of 10.3 seconds matched his time in the first round of heats.
The Americans finished 1-2 in front of 110,000 in the Reich Sports Field Stadium. The ovation they received was loud but only a whisper compared to the cheer that Karl Hein of Germany received.
Hardly a minute after Hitler had seated himself in his box, Erwin Blask of Germany unleashed a tremendous toss of 180' 6 ½", breaking Matt McGrath's Olympic Record. Hein, however, overhauled Blask with the best any Continental hammer-thrower ever has made: 185' 4 1/16" to give Germany its own 1-2 finish. The tumultuous applause was the loudest of the day.
The record breaking did not finsh with these two finals. Miss Helen Stephens of St. Louis Missouri, striding through the first heat of the women's 100-meter sprint turned in a dazzling 11.4 second run.
This was 4/10 of a second faster than Miss Stella Walsh's listed world record and 2/10 under the Missouri girl's own American record, which has yet to be accepted internationally.
To make it more emphatic, Miss Stephens slammed into the tape of the semi-final in 11.5 seconds. Miss Kaethe Krauss of Germany, in second place was carried along sufficiently by Miss Stephens' blinding speed to equal Miss Walsh's Olympic figure of 11.9 seconds.
It was a great day for sport as the United States took command of the men's track and field race for the first time with a total of 46 points to 31 ¼ for Germany and Finland's 30 ¼ points. But if one elects to score the women's tests with the men's than Germany, moving along the wings of a sport renaissance deeply rooted in nationalistic fervor, is at the head of the parade with 47 ¼ points.
German nationalism and the prejudice that seems to go with it revealed themselves somewhat disagreeably this afternoon. On the surface all was serene. The Führer apparently played no favorite. He did not publicly receive the winning Germans nor did he decide to greet decidedly non-Aryan Americans, Owens and Metcalfe.
But an investigation by some who had taken his departure yesterday to mean he did not want to shake hands with non-Aryan high jumpers, Cornelius Johnson and David Albritton. This investigation produced information which seemed collaborative. In the seclusion of his quarters under the stands the Reich's dictator did congratulate Hein and Blask, the hammer-throwers. Perhaps two and two makes four after all. If Hitler is going to avoid the African-Americans, he is going to have his work cut out for him.
From a general sporting standpoint, however, there could be no taking the play away from Owens. He left the stadium last night in the belief that he had broken the world record with his 10.2 time. But the usually efficient Germans have an annoying roundabout way of getting the news to the newspaper men and the athletes.
It was discovered this morning that Owen's new mark had been disallowed because of a following wind. Whether he or Miss Stephens will have the same experience tomorrow cannot be guessed. From the stands the breeze looked like a crosswind, but one can never tell about those things.
Owens won today because in truth he is the world's fastest human. No one ever ran a more perfect race. His start was perfect, his in-between running was perfect and his finish perfect.
The Buckeye Bullet ripped out of his starting holes as though slungby a giant catapult. He was ahead in his first stride and let the Osendarp and Wykoff battle behind him for what left of the race.
Metcalfe, hardly the best starter in the world, was off in atrocious fashion. He was sixth in the six man field in the getaway, but once in his stride he certainly moved. By sixty meters he had drawn up even with Hollander and begun to cut down the two yard advantage Owens had on him.
It was then a speed duel between the streamlined express and the old-fashioned steam engine that exuded sheer, rugged power. Metcalfe cut those two yards to one at the wire, but it was as close as he could get, losing by a yard a championship that had eluded him four years before by a hair.
The Americans finished 1-2 in front of 110,000 in the Reich Sports Field Stadium. The ovation they received was loud but only a whisper compared to the cheer that Karl Hein of Germany received.
Hardly a minute after Hitler had seated himself in his box, Erwin Blask of Germany unleashed a tremendous toss of 180' 6 ½", breaking Matt McGrath's Olympic Record. Hein, however, overhauled Blask with the best any Continental hammer-thrower ever has made: 185' 4 1/16" to give Germany its own 1-2 finish. The tumultuous applause was the loudest of the day.
The record breaking did not finsh with these two finals. Miss Helen Stephens of St. Louis Missouri, striding through the first heat of the women's 100-meter sprint turned in a dazzling 11.4 second run.
This was 4/10 of a second faster than Miss Stella Walsh's listed world record and 2/10 under the Missouri girl's own American record, which has yet to be accepted internationally.
To make it more emphatic, Miss Stephens slammed into the tape of the semi-final in 11.5 seconds. Miss Kaethe Krauss of Germany, in second place was carried along sufficiently by Miss Stephens' blinding speed to equal Miss Walsh's Olympic figure of 11.9 seconds.
It was a great day for sport as the United States took command of the men's track and field race for the first time with a total of 46 points to 31 ¼ for Germany and Finland's 30 ¼ points. But if one elects to score the women's tests with the men's than Germany, moving along the wings of a sport renaissance deeply rooted in nationalistic fervor, is at the head of the parade with 47 ¼ points.
German nationalism and the prejudice that seems to go with it revealed themselves somewhat disagreeably this afternoon. On the surface all was serene. The Führer apparently played no favorite. He did not publicly receive the winning Germans nor did he decide to greet decidedly non-Aryan Americans, Owens and Metcalfe.
But an investigation by some who had taken his departure yesterday to mean he did not want to shake hands with non-Aryan high jumpers, Cornelius Johnson and David Albritton. This investigation produced information which seemed collaborative. In the seclusion of his quarters under the stands the Reich's dictator did congratulate Hein and Blask, the hammer-throwers. Perhaps two and two makes four after all. If Hitler is going to avoid the African-Americans, he is going to have his work cut out for him.
From a general sporting standpoint, however, there could be no taking the play away from Owens. He left the stadium last night in the belief that he had broken the world record with his 10.2 time. But the usually efficient Germans have an annoying roundabout way of getting the news to the newspaper men and the athletes.
It was discovered this morning that Owen's new mark had been disallowed because of a following wind. Whether he or Miss Stephens will have the same experience tomorrow cannot be guessed. From the stands the breeze looked like a crosswind, but one can never tell about those things.
Owens won today because in truth he is the world's fastest human. No one ever ran a more perfect race. His start was perfect, his in-between running was perfect and his finish perfect.
The Buckeye Bullet ripped out of his starting holes as though slungby a giant catapult. He was ahead in his first stride and let the Osendarp and Wykoff battle behind him for what left of the race.
Metcalfe, hardly the best starter in the world, was off in atrocious fashion. He was sixth in the six man field in the getaway, but once in his stride he certainly moved. By sixty meters he had drawn up even with Hollander and begun to cut down the two yard advantage Owens had on him.
It was then a speed duel between the streamlined express and the old-fashioned steam engine that exuded sheer, rugged power. Metcalfe cut those two yards to one at the wire, but it was as close as he could get, losing by a yard a championship that had eluded him four years before by a hair.
Thursday, August 3, 2006
Jesse Owens breaks records
Jesse Owens of Ohio is one very good runner. Here in Berlin, he is just beginning to show how good he is to the rest of the world.
During the well-attended first round heats for the 100 meter dash, he managed to break the Olympic record with a of 10.3 seconds. Then, in the afternoon he broke his own record with a 10.2 second showing. Victory for him tomorrow in the final seems to be merely his for the asking.
In the first round, the only runner who threatened was Osendarp of the Netherlands at 10.5 seconds. Then in the quarter-finals Strandberg of Sweden outsprinted the Netherlander with Wykoff placing third.
Some of the stars who were expected to do well have been eliminated. Yoshopka of Japan, Grimbeck and Theunissen of South Africa Berger of the Netherlands and Fondevilla of Argentina have all been close to the world record mark this year but did not make the final cut.
During the well-attended first round heats for the 100 meter dash, he managed to break the Olympic record with a of 10.3 seconds. Then, in the afternoon he broke his own record with a 10.2 second showing. Victory for him tomorrow in the final seems to be merely his for the asking.
In the first round, the only runner who threatened was Osendarp of the Netherlands at 10.5 seconds. Then in the quarter-finals Strandberg of Sweden outsprinted the Netherlander with Wykoff placing third.
Some of the stars who were expected to do well have been eliminated. Yoshopka of Japan, Grimbeck and Theunissen of South Africa Berger of the Netherlands and Fondevilla of Argentina have all been close to the world record mark this year but did not make the final cut.
Hitler receives Olympians; snubs Americans
Miss Hilde (Tilly) Fleischer won the women's javelin throw and also broke the Olympic record. For once Germany's cup of joy was filled to overflowing.
The crowd was off to a good start in its applause of the Reich athletes when Miss Fleischer winged out the javelin on her first throw. And when she climbed to the victory pedestal she stood with arms outstretched in the Nazi salute to Hitler, tears in her eyes and a lump in her throat. To her went the distinction of being the first Olympic champion of 1936.
Chancellor Hitler himself witnessed the victories. With a group of State officials and National Socialist party leaders, including Julius Streicher, he spent the afternoon watching the games. He greeted the victors with a warm handclasp and a friendly pat on the back, while the welkin rang with the frenzied cheers of the spectators.
Americans also had great results for the day. Just as the setting sun dipped behind the concrete ramparts of the huge stadium America came in for her share of the glory. Cornelius Johnson, the kangaroo-legged Negro from California, won the high jump and in keeping with the general trend of things shattered the Olympic record too. This event was a slam for the United States, because Ave Albritton, Ohio State Negro, and Delos Thurber of Southern California took the other two medals.
But for politically minded persons in the crowd there was one rather disquieting incident connected with the march of these three Americans to the victory pedestal. The Führer had greeted all three medalists in other events -- the Germans and the Finns -- with a handclasp and words of congratulation. But five minutes before the United States jumpers moved in for the ceremony of the Olympic triumph Hitler left his box.
Johnson and Albritton are Negroes. None of the others were. Press box interpreters of this step chose to put two and two together. But there will be enough future Negro winners to warrant delaying passing judgment for the present.
- NYT
The crowd was off to a good start in its applause of the Reich athletes when Miss Fleischer winged out the javelin on her first throw. And when she climbed to the victory pedestal she stood with arms outstretched in the Nazi salute to Hitler, tears in her eyes and a lump in her throat. To her went the distinction of being the first Olympic champion of 1936.
Chancellor Hitler himself witnessed the victories. With a group of State officials and National Socialist party leaders, including Julius Streicher, he spent the afternoon watching the games. He greeted the victors with a warm handclasp and a friendly pat on the back, while the welkin rang with the frenzied cheers of the spectators.
Americans also had great results for the day. Just as the setting sun dipped behind the concrete ramparts of the huge stadium America came in for her share of the glory. Cornelius Johnson, the kangaroo-legged Negro from California, won the high jump and in keeping with the general trend of things shattered the Olympic record too. This event was a slam for the United States, because Ave Albritton, Ohio State Negro, and Delos Thurber of Southern California took the other two medals.
But for politically minded persons in the crowd there was one rather disquieting incident connected with the march of these three Americans to the victory pedestal. The Führer had greeted all three medalists in other events -- the Germans and the Finns -- with a handclasp and words of congratulation. But five minutes before the United States jumpers moved in for the ceremony of the Olympic triumph Hitler left his box.
Johnson and Albritton are Negroes. None of the others were. Press box interpreters of this step chose to put two and two together. But there will be enough future Negro winners to warrant delaying passing judgment for the present.
- NYT
Berlin Happy & Festive
Berliners are enjoying their 16 days of Olympic fun. The Games of the XI Olympiad go on as the citizens of this beautiful city go about their lives and join in the festivities.
The mood is gay and festive. Many Berliners are enjoying themselves. It has been said that that not since the first Sunday after Armistice have Berliners been as jubilant.
Even those not in attendance, there are loudspeakers all over Berlin announcing the results of events. Clustered around many of these loudspeakers, Berliners wait to hear how their countrymen have fared.
The Germans did not have long to wait for their first Olympic Champion. Miss Fleischer provided that in the Javelin contest.
Germany also had a champion when Hans Woellke won the shot-put earlier yesterday. Woellke threw the ball 53' 1 13/16" to surpass Leo Sextons Olympic record of 52' 6 3/16".
Sula Baerlund of Finland took silver and Gerhard Stoek, another German, took bronze. Sam Francis of Nebraska finished just out of the medals and Jack Torrance, Louisiana's state record holder, was fifth. Dimitri Zaitz of Boston College finished sixth.
The mood is gay and festive. Many Berliners are enjoying themselves. It has been said that that not since the first Sunday after Armistice have Berliners been as jubilant.
Even those not in attendance, there are loudspeakers all over Berlin announcing the results of events. Clustered around many of these loudspeakers, Berliners wait to hear how their countrymen have fared.
The Germans did not have long to wait for their first Olympic Champion. Miss Fleischer provided that in the Javelin contest.
Germany also had a champion when Hans Woellke won the shot-put earlier yesterday. Woellke threw the ball 53' 1 13/16" to surpass Leo Sextons Olympic record of 52' 6 3/16".
Sula Baerlund of Finland took silver and Gerhard Stoek, another German, took bronze. Sam Francis of Nebraska finished just out of the medals and Jack Torrance, Louisiana's state record holder, was fifth. Dimitri Zaitz of Boston College finished sixth.
Lindbergh leaves Berlin without meeting Hitler
Colonel Charles A. Lindbergh ended a twelve-day stay in Germany today without having met Chancellor Hitler despite having sat almost within speaking distance of each other at the Olympic Games.
The American flyer and Mrs. Lindbergh took off quietly for Copenhagen, Denmark, after the Colonel had paid tribute to the progress of Germany's aviation industry.
After his departure, it became known that Colonel Lindbergh and Chancellor Hitler had occupied seats within feet of each other at the ceremonies yesterday. Nobody apparently made any effort to introduce them.
In American diploamatic quarters it was explained "no time coud be found that was convenient to both which to arrange the meeting".
German and American officials disclaimed knowledge of plans for any future meet of the two.
"Germany leads the world in lighter-than-air craft" Colonel Lindbergh commented to friends before his departure. "That, of course, is something we all knew before I came. I was genuinely surprised to find that Germany has thoroughly developed Diesel motors for aviation purposes.
"In this, too, she leads the world. We in America have not begun to develop and exploit Diesel motors as has Germany.
"Germany was in front before and during the war as regards heavier-than-air craft, but she naturally lost the lead on account of post-war conditions. She is coming up fast, however, and sail-planing, too, is a great art in Germany."
Colonel Lindbergh added that in general he was intensely pleased by what he had observed in Germany.
The American flyer and Mrs. Lindbergh took off quietly for Copenhagen, Denmark, after the Colonel had paid tribute to the progress of Germany's aviation industry.
After his departure, it became known that Colonel Lindbergh and Chancellor Hitler had occupied seats within feet of each other at the ceremonies yesterday. Nobody apparently made any effort to introduce them.
In American diploamatic quarters it was explained "no time coud be found that was convenient to both which to arrange the meeting".
German and American officials disclaimed knowledge of plans for any future meet of the two.
"Germany leads the world in lighter-than-air craft" Colonel Lindbergh commented to friends before his departure. "That, of course, is something we all knew before I came. I was genuinely surprised to find that Germany has thoroughly developed Diesel motors for aviation purposes.
"In this, too, she leads the world. We in America have not begun to develop and exploit Diesel motors as has Germany.
"Germany was in front before and during the war as regards heavier-than-air craft, but she naturally lost the lead on account of post-war conditions. She is coming up fast, however, and sail-planing, too, is a great art in Germany."
Colonel Lindbergh added that in general he was intensely pleased by what he had observed in Germany.
Wednesday, August 2, 2006
The Opening Ceremonies of the XIth Olympiad
A gray sky that threatened rain without ever really fulfilling that threat towered today over the Opening Ceremonies of the 11th Olympic Games of modern times. It was not a misfortune, because there stood out in sharper relief all the brilliant coloring of this most picturesque of ceremonies, which comes only once ever four years.
The picture against this gray background was the huge expanse of the world's newest and biggest stadium and the great throng of 110,000 that filled the gray stone benches. In the arena below, the greenest of lawns was cut by the running track of red cinders. At each end wide granite stairways leading to the skyline were broken only by the twin stone clock towers and the unadorned flagpoles.
At one side was an orchestra, reinforced by the drums and bugles of a half-dozen military bands, and above them was a choir of a thousand, all in white. At the other side a line of gray benches was broken by a square, outstanding platform, equipped with microphones for the Caesar of this era, the German Führer, and his entourage. Below that was a little forest of chairs for the Ambassadors and special envoys of nations.
As the ceremonies continued, a little girl in blue, her fair hair bound by a chaplet of flowers, came forward and, making a German curtsey, gave the Führer a bouquet of roses. He touched her hair and evidently spoke gently to her while Count Henri de Baillet-Latour took her by the hand and led her with the notables in frock coats and top hats to the Caesar's dais. The assembly remained standing still, vociferating in a chorus of "heils". The Germans in unison saluted their beloved Führer.
The bands broke into "Deutchland Uber Alles" then into the Nazi anthem, the "Horst-Wessel Song" as the notables took their places. Theodor Lewald, head of the German Olympic Committee gave up his chair of honor to the Italian Crown Prince.
On a flagpole, the Olympic Flag—white with five interlocking circles representing the five continents—was slowly raised. Outside the stadium, guns boomed.
First item on the program was the parade. The Olympic Bell tolled a deep note. The bell is inscribed with the words "I summon the youth of the world." As if to answer the bell's summons, into the stadium marched the athletes. Leading, because their country started the Olympic Games in 776 B. C., were the Greeks. Next, at the head of the German alphabetical list were the Egyptians. Loudest applause went to Austrians who gave the Nazi salute, to goose-stepping Bulgarians (who also rendered the Nazi salute to the delight of the German spectators), to a Swiss flag-bearer who did juggling tricks. English athletes got few cheers.
Next to last, the US team members saluted Realmleader Hitler by placing their straw hats over their hearts( as did the Philippines and China). The Americans were also the only country not lower their flag when passing the Führer. They kept their flag aloft proudly. An official statement published in all the newspapers, however, explained this as due to Army regulations and for public understanding in the matter.
For the Americans, the crowd shouted, whistled, clapped in unison. The American athletes were received somewhat coolly. The audience was notably subdued when they entered. Some European observers noted a noisy whistling that was suggestive of the "Bronx Cheer".
The noise soon died when the German team became visible at the Marathon Gate, where the teams entered. The bands ceased to play the march they had been playing and went in impassioned performances of "Deutschland Uber Ales" and the "Horst-Wessel Song" all over again. The German audience rose in silent attention. They did not wish for the American team to applauded.
As for the attire of the athletes, there was many an ensemble. The Americans looked crip[s in their white flannel trousers, their white shoes, dark blue blazers and straw hats with the national arms on the front of the blue hatband. The Egyptians wore red fezes above similar dress. Australia was in dark green and white. The Belgians were picturesque in all-gray flannels.
The Bermudans and Chinese wore white sun helmets, while the Colombians were clad in gray trousers and bright blue blazers. The Danes marched resplendent in rose and white. The British were bare headed but dressed otherwise in American fashion. So were the French. The Canadians were in red and white and gave the Olympic salute. The Italians wore black shirts over white trousers. The Germans were in all white. The officers in the parade who are to take part in the cavalry competitions all wore their national uniforms.
Germany provided the contingent of athletes. The United States with some 400 athletes, was the second largest, with France, Italy and Great Britain come next in order. Both Haiti and Costa Rica sent a single person apiece who also bore their flag for their respective nations. Honors in marching when wholly to the German, who moved like a great machine.
At last the Parade was ended and some 5,000 athletes from 52 nations came to rest on the green infield before the Führer, Dr. Lewald, made a 20-minute speech to introduce Herr Hitler, who, dressed in a brown uniform, had arrived an hour before. He addressed Hitler "respectfully and gratefully as the protector of these Olympic Games to be held in this stadium, built according to your will and purpose" invited him to declare them open.
Adolf Hitler stopped chatting with his good friend Cinemactress Leni Riefenstahl, official Olympic photographer, long enough to speak a racial comment. Said he: "In a few minutes, the torch bearer will appear to light the Olympic fire on his tripod, when it will rise, flaming to heaven, for the weeks of this festival. It creates a real and spiritual bond of fire between our German fatherland and the sacred places of Greece founded nearly 4,000 years ago by Nordic immigrants.
"Only so long as sport isn't allowed to become an end is itself but, on the contrary, a moral duty, only so long as it isn't merely an empty pleasure or the desire for thrills, but discipline and devotion to a higher ideal, dare it to be the object of such a festival."
After a pause, De Lewald announced that only the day before, the Olympic Committee decided to make the "Olympic Hymn" used at these games, the hymn for all future meets and expressed thanks to Richard Strauss for having created it.
At the end of Dr. Lewald speech, Herr Hitler stepped forward once more and fullfilled his sole duty of these game saying "I proclaim open the Olympic Games of Berlin, celebrating the XIth Olympiad of the modern era."
Then Trumpets sounded across the arena and 3,000 white pegeons flew into the air. A white clad chorus then sang the "Olympic Hymn". The Hinderburg flew over the stadium trailing the large white Olympic flag behind it.
Atop the staircase at the East gate appeared the last runner of the 3,000 who had relayed the Olympic Flame from Olympia in Greece. This last runner, Fritz Schilgen, scampered down the steps, paddled across the arena, trotted up the west stairs to a platform, dipped his torch. The Olympic Fire flared up from its bowl.
After the ceremony of the Olympic Torch came the Olympic Oath.The 52 flag-bearers formed a semicircle in front of the reviewing stand. German Weightlifter Rudolf Ismayr mounted a tiny rostrum, recited through amplifiers so everyone could hear: "We swear that we will take part in the Olympic Games in loyal competition, respecting the regulations which govern them and desirous of participating in them in the true spirit of sportsmanship, for the honor of our country and the glory of sport." A German choir sang Handel's Hallelujah Chorus.
On the bulletin board which will proclaim the results of the competitions appeared the words of Baron de Coubertin, who revived the Olympic games in their present form:"The important thing is not to win but to take part. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought to win."
Then gnarled old Spiridon Loues, Greek shepherd and marathon runner, wearing his national costume, who won the Olympic race in 1896, wobbled out of the ranks to present Herr Hitler with an olive branch. Mr. Loues said to the Chancellor "I present to you this olive branch as a symbol of love and peace. We hope that the nations will ever meet solely in such peaceful competition. Hitler receiving it with obvious emotion, thanked him heartily and shook hands with him. Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus" resounded once more and brought the ceremony to a close and the athletes marched slowly out.
As for the performance, written by Dr. Carl Diem, secretary of the Olympic Organization Committee. There had been a request from Baron de Coubertin to include Beethoven's Ninth Symphony which includes a musical setting for Friedrich von Schiller's stirring "Ode to Joy". Dr. Diem went further and wrote a pageant in five acts on the romantic theme of youth.
The first scene opened just after nightfall. No performers appeared at first. There were seen only two great choruses grouped in the shadows. From the tower above Marathon Gate were first heard the trumpets playing the "Welcome Song".
Then entered 3,000 little girls in white dresses and 900 boys in Olympic colors, from whose masses came the faint notes of glass chimes. The children danced finally forming the Olympic flag.
Then the chimes of the Potsdam Church, where Frederick the Great is buried were heard and the two choirs sang a hymn titled "Eternal Olympia" This was composed for the occasion by the German musician Werner Egk.
Following the children, came 2,000 older girls who danced as a chorus to a solo waltz by Talutta. Five hundred more girls from a noted gymnastics school then gave a demonstration of rhythmic dancing until "The Voice of the Mother" summoned them to be serious, and chorus answered in unison.
The next scene showed groups of boys from various nations engaging in games about a series of bonfires until the fires were hurried away, and the boys disappeared at the blast of a trumpet. Then the spotlights were concentrated on the ceremonial steps leading down into the stadium from Marathon Gate.
A group of 1,200 youths descended these stairs carrying silken flags of all nations. Swiss flag bearers gave a demonstration of their art of flag swinging. Then, when the flag bearers all had descended into the stadium, they raised their hands in the Olympic salute and with the chorus sang a hymn.
A sword dance followed in which both dancers died in rhythmic agony. The moral of this scene was supposedly that modern war destroys the visitor and the vanquished. After that 80 girls danced the "Dance of the Mourners".
But this led to the first bars of the 4th and final movement of Beethoven's cherished Ninth Symphony. A voice was heard reciting Schiller's famous poem. A chorus of 1,000 voices joined in. The 6,000 performers who had taken part in the previous scenes streamed into the field, joined hands and embraced. The flags of the nations taking part in the games were raised around the stadium. Lighted torches formed a ring of fire about its outer edge and the searchlights were thrown
onto the 1,200 flags of nations which reappeared on the field as a signal the pageant was over.
During the day Hitler was subjected to continuous ovations. I nthe newly paved square in front of the Chancellory, in the Wilhelmstrausse, thousands stood for hours ot cheer him. Again and again he had to appear on the balcony overlooking the square to wave responses to the frenzied adulation.
Biggest and noisiest in history, the 1936 Olympics are scheduled to last for 16 days. Five thousand athletes from 50 countries will compete in 22 sports, watched by 3,500,000 spectators, recorded by 1,500 reporters. To accommodate all this, Berlin, cheated of the 1916 Olympics by the War, spent $24,000,000 on municipal improvements; a 325-acre Reichssportfeld including four stadiums, an outdoor theatre, basketball courts, pools, a polo field, a gymnasium; and an Olympic Village conveniently close to Staaken Airport which can use it for barracks when the Games are over.
The picture against this gray background was the huge expanse of the world's newest and biggest stadium and the great throng of 110,000 that filled the gray stone benches. In the arena below, the greenest of lawns was cut by the running track of red cinders. At each end wide granite stairways leading to the skyline were broken only by the twin stone clock towers and the unadorned flagpoles.
At one side was an orchestra, reinforced by the drums and bugles of a half-dozen military bands, and above them was a choir of a thousand, all in white. At the other side a line of gray benches was broken by a square, outstanding platform, equipped with microphones for the Caesar of this era, the German Führer, and his entourage. Below that was a little forest of chairs for the Ambassadors and special envoys of nations.
As the ceremonies continued, a little girl in blue, her fair hair bound by a chaplet of flowers, came forward and, making a German curtsey, gave the Führer a bouquet of roses. He touched her hair and evidently spoke gently to her while Count Henri de Baillet-Latour took her by the hand and led her with the notables in frock coats and top hats to the Caesar's dais. The assembly remained standing still, vociferating in a chorus of "heils". The Germans in unison saluted their beloved Führer.The bands broke into "Deutchland Uber Alles" then into the Nazi anthem, the "Horst-Wessel Song" as the notables took their places. Theodor Lewald, head of the German Olympic Committee gave up his chair of honor to the Italian Crown Prince.
On a flagpole, the Olympic Flag—white with five interlocking circles representing the five continents—was slowly raised. Outside the stadium, guns boomed.
First item on the program was the parade. The Olympic Bell tolled a deep note. The bell is inscribed with the words "I summon the youth of the world." As if to answer the bell's summons, into the stadium marched the athletes. Leading, because their country started the Olympic Games in 776 B. C., were the Greeks. Next, at the head of the German alphabetical list were the Egyptians. Loudest applause went to Austrians who gave the Nazi salute, to goose-stepping Bulgarians (who also rendered the Nazi salute to the delight of the German spectators), to a Swiss flag-bearer who did juggling tricks. English athletes got few cheers.
Next to last, the US team members saluted Realmleader Hitler by placing their straw hats over their hearts( as did the Philippines and China). The Americans were also the only country not lower their flag when passing the Führer. They kept their flag aloft proudly. An official statement published in all the newspapers, however, explained this as due to Army regulations and for public understanding in the matter.
For the Americans, the crowd shouted, whistled, clapped in unison. The American athletes were received somewhat coolly. The audience was notably subdued when they entered. Some European observers noted a noisy whistling that was suggestive of the "Bronx Cheer".
The noise soon died when the German team became visible at the Marathon Gate, where the teams entered. The bands ceased to play the march they had been playing and went in impassioned performances of "Deutschland Uber Ales" and the "Horst-Wessel Song" all over again. The German audience rose in silent attention. They did not wish for the American team to applauded.
As for the attire of the athletes, there was many an ensemble. The Americans looked crip[s in their white flannel trousers, their white shoes, dark blue blazers and straw hats with the national arms on the front of the blue hatband. The Egyptians wore red fezes above similar dress. Australia was in dark green and white. The Belgians were picturesque in all-gray flannels.
The Bermudans and Chinese wore white sun helmets, while the Colombians were clad in gray trousers and bright blue blazers. The Danes marched resplendent in rose and white. The British were bare headed but dressed otherwise in American fashion. So were the French. The Canadians were in red and white and gave the Olympic salute. The Italians wore black shirts over white trousers. The Germans were in all white. The officers in the parade who are to take part in the cavalry competitions all wore their national uniforms.
Germany provided the contingent of athletes. The United States with some 400 athletes, was the second largest, with France, Italy and Great Britain come next in order. Both Haiti and Costa Rica sent a single person apiece who also bore their flag for their respective nations. Honors in marching when wholly to the German, who moved like a great machine.
At last the Parade was ended and some 5,000 athletes from 52 nations came to rest on the green infield before the Führer, Dr. Lewald, made a 20-minute speech to introduce Herr Hitler, who, dressed in a brown uniform, had arrived an hour before. He addressed Hitler "respectfully and gratefully as the protector of these Olympic Games to be held in this stadium, built according to your will and purpose" invited him to declare them open.
Adolf Hitler stopped chatting with his good friend Cinemactress Leni Riefenstahl, official Olympic photographer, long enough to speak a racial comment. Said he: "In a few minutes, the torch bearer will appear to light the Olympic fire on his tripod, when it will rise, flaming to heaven, for the weeks of this festival. It creates a real and spiritual bond of fire between our German fatherland and the sacred places of Greece founded nearly 4,000 years ago by Nordic immigrants.
"Only so long as sport isn't allowed to become an end is itself but, on the contrary, a moral duty, only so long as it isn't merely an empty pleasure or the desire for thrills, but discipline and devotion to a higher ideal, dare it to be the object of such a festival."
After a pause, De Lewald announced that only the day before, the Olympic Committee decided to make the "Olympic Hymn" used at these games, the hymn for all future meets and expressed thanks to Richard Strauss for having created it.
At the end of Dr. Lewald speech, Herr Hitler stepped forward once more and fullfilled his sole duty of these game saying "I proclaim open the Olympic Games of Berlin, celebrating the XIth Olympiad of the modern era."
Then Trumpets sounded across the arena and 3,000 white pegeons flew into the air. A white clad chorus then sang the "Olympic Hymn". The Hinderburg flew over the stadium trailing the large white Olympic flag behind it.
Atop the staircase at the East gate appeared the last runner of the 3,000 who had relayed the Olympic Flame from Olympia in Greece. This last runner, Fritz Schilgen, scampered down the steps, paddled across the arena, trotted up the west stairs to a platform, dipped his torch. The Olympic Fire flared up from its bowl.
After the ceremony of the Olympic Torch came the Olympic Oath.The 52 flag-bearers formed a semicircle in front of the reviewing stand. German Weightlifter Rudolf Ismayr mounted a tiny rostrum, recited through amplifiers so everyone could hear: "We swear that we will take part in the Olympic Games in loyal competition, respecting the regulations which govern them and desirous of participating in them in the true spirit of sportsmanship, for the honor of our country and the glory of sport." A German choir sang Handel's Hallelujah Chorus.On the bulletin board which will proclaim the results of the competitions appeared the words of Baron de Coubertin, who revived the Olympic games in their present form:"The important thing is not to win but to take part. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought to win."
Then gnarled old Spiridon Loues, Greek shepherd and marathon runner, wearing his national costume, who won the Olympic race in 1896, wobbled out of the ranks to present Herr Hitler with an olive branch. Mr. Loues said to the Chancellor "I present to you this olive branch as a symbol of love and peace. We hope that the nations will ever meet solely in such peaceful competition. Hitler receiving it with obvious emotion, thanked him heartily and shook hands with him. Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus" resounded once more and brought the ceremony to a close and the athletes marched slowly out.
As for the performance, written by Dr. Carl Diem, secretary of the Olympic Organization Committee. There had been a request from Baron de Coubertin to include Beethoven's Ninth Symphony which includes a musical setting for Friedrich von Schiller's stirring "Ode to Joy". Dr. Diem went further and wrote a pageant in five acts on the romantic theme of youth.
The first scene opened just after nightfall. No performers appeared at first. There were seen only two great choruses grouped in the shadows. From the tower above Marathon Gate were first heard the trumpets playing the "Welcome Song".
Then entered 3,000 little girls in white dresses and 900 boys in Olympic colors, from whose masses came the faint notes of glass chimes. The children danced finally forming the Olympic flag.
Then the chimes of the Potsdam Church, where Frederick the Great is buried were heard and the two choirs sang a hymn titled "Eternal Olympia" This was composed for the occasion by the German musician Werner Egk.
Following the children, came 2,000 older girls who danced as a chorus to a solo waltz by Talutta. Five hundred more girls from a noted gymnastics school then gave a demonstration of rhythmic dancing until "The Voice of the Mother" summoned them to be serious, and chorus answered in unison.
The next scene showed groups of boys from various nations engaging in games about a series of bonfires until the fires were hurried away, and the boys disappeared at the blast of a trumpet. Then the spotlights were concentrated on the ceremonial steps leading down into the stadium from Marathon Gate.
A group of 1,200 youths descended these stairs carrying silken flags of all nations. Swiss flag bearers gave a demonstration of their art of flag swinging. Then, when the flag bearers all had descended into the stadium, they raised their hands in the Olympic salute and with the chorus sang a hymn.
A sword dance followed in which both dancers died in rhythmic agony. The moral of this scene was supposedly that modern war destroys the visitor and the vanquished. After that 80 girls danced the "Dance of the Mourners".
But this led to the first bars of the 4th and final movement of Beethoven's cherished Ninth Symphony. A voice was heard reciting Schiller's famous poem. A chorus of 1,000 voices joined in. The 6,000 performers who had taken part in the previous scenes streamed into the field, joined hands and embraced. The flags of the nations taking part in the games were raised around the stadium. Lighted torches formed a ring of fire about its outer edge and the searchlights were thrown
onto the 1,200 flags of nations which reappeared on the field as a signal the pageant was over.During the day Hitler was subjected to continuous ovations. I nthe newly paved square in front of the Chancellory, in the Wilhelmstrausse, thousands stood for hours ot cheer him. Again and again he had to appear on the balcony overlooking the square to wave responses to the frenzied adulation.
Biggest and noisiest in history, the 1936 Olympics are scheduled to last for 16 days. Five thousand athletes from 50 countries will compete in 22 sports, watched by 3,500,000 spectators, recorded by 1,500 reporters. To accommodate all this, Berlin, cheated of the 1916 Olympics by the War, spent $24,000,000 on municipal improvements; a 325-acre Reichssportfeld including four stadiums, an outdoor theatre, basketball courts, pools, a polo field, a gymnasium; and an Olympic Village conveniently close to Staaken Airport which can use it for barracks when the Games are over.
The Olympics open in Berlin
Yesterday, Germany and the rest of the world celebrated the opening of the Olympics. The world took a few hours out of the tension of fascism and civil war to enjoy the opening ceremony in Berlin's Olympic Stadium, built just for this spectacle.
Questions of whether Jewish athletes would be treated fairly have been around since Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Power ascended to power in early 1933. The United States debated whether to boycott the games three years ago. President Roosevelt dismissed this and demanded that the United States participate in the games. He remarked that it was traditional that the United States was beyond external influence. He would not allow the German political differences to influence the participation of American athletes in the greatest sporting spectacle of the Globe. Many doubts and questions still linger for much of the world.
There have been reports and photos of signs informing Jews of prohibitions. These signs were not to be seen throughout Germany. The Nazi authorities may have taken them down for an International audience that does not favor the Nazi beliefs against Jews and the International Jewry itself.
Questions of whether Jewish athletes would be treated fairly have been around since Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Power ascended to power in early 1933. The United States debated whether to boycott the games three years ago. President Roosevelt dismissed this and demanded that the United States participate in the games. He remarked that it was traditional that the United States was beyond external influence. He would not allow the German political differences to influence the participation of American athletes in the greatest sporting spectacle of the Globe. Many doubts and questions still linger for much of the world.
There have been reports and photos of signs informing Jews of prohibitions. These signs were not to be seen throughout Germany. The Nazi authorities may have taken them down for an International audience that does not favor the Nazi beliefs against Jews and the International Jewry itself.
Tuesday, August 1, 2006
Tokyo to host 1940 Olympics
The Japanese public was woken today when at 6 AM, there was a radio announcement to inform them Tokyo had been selected to host the next Olympics in 1940. The result gives the Japanese enormous pleasure. The Japanese people have become one of the world's most sport-minded people in the last twenty years.
Yesterday, the International Olympic Committee voted to award the 12th Olympic Games to Tokyo. The runner up was Helskinki, Finland.
The Mayor of Tokyo will launch an elaborate program of municipal festivities to express the citizens' joy and incidentally whip up enthusiasm for the great effort to give Tokyo the latest and finest equipment.
Potential champions are already training. last night, despite temperature of 96°F and a humidity correspondingly high, a crowd of youths were practicing not just track events but javelin and discus throwing as well.
Plans for enlarging sports accommodations at a cost of ¥10,000,000 already exist as blueprints. The existing track and field stadium will be enlarged so that it will seat 120,000. A new playing field, seating 50,000 will be built, and a swimming pool accommodating 30,000 spectators is to be provided.
An entirely new Equestrian Track will be constructed in a Tokyo suburb in addition to a new indoor arena for boxing and wrestling. The yachting contests will be held off Yokohama and a new regatta course is being prepared there. A purely native addition will be a display of Japanese fencing, wrestling and archery.
An Olympic Village will be constructed in Tanagawa, thirty minutes from the city.
The Games are scheduled to run from July 20th through August 4th, 1940. The 11th Olympics open today in Berlin.
Yesterday, the International Olympic Committee voted to award the 12th Olympic Games to Tokyo. The runner up was Helskinki, Finland.
The Mayor of Tokyo will launch an elaborate program of municipal festivities to express the citizens' joy and incidentally whip up enthusiasm for the great effort to give Tokyo the latest and finest equipment.
Potential champions are already training. last night, despite temperature of 96°F and a humidity correspondingly high, a crowd of youths were practicing not just track events but javelin and discus throwing as well.
Plans for enlarging sports accommodations at a cost of ¥10,000,000 already exist as blueprints. The existing track and field stadium will be enlarged so that it will seat 120,000. A new playing field, seating 50,000 will be built, and a swimming pool accommodating 30,000 spectators is to be provided.
An entirely new Equestrian Track will be constructed in a Tokyo suburb in addition to a new indoor arena for boxing and wrestling. The yachting contests will be held off Yokohama and a new regatta course is being prepared there. A purely native addition will be a display of Japanese fencing, wrestling and archery.
An Olympic Village will be constructed in Tanagawa, thirty minutes from the city.
The Games are scheduled to run from July 20th through August 4th, 1940. The 11th Olympics open today in Berlin.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Italy & Germany for Franco
Italy and Germany have both voiced support for General Franco and his Fascist forces. Each will be shipping arms to the rebels to help with their struggle against the Republican government and the Monarchy.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Another Government in Spain
Swiftly changing governmental hands, José Giral y Pereira has also been asked to form a government by President Azaña within hours of asking Diego Martínez y Barrio to do the same. Yesterday, July 19th, Martínez y Barrio was unable to make any progress in the formation of a government. The President therefore, decided that time was not something they had on their side as rebellion continues.One of Giral y Pereira's first orders as head of government was to issue arms to the general populace.
Seville, one of the most important cities in the south, is unsuccessfully defended by local police troops and a poorly armed workers' militia. While the heaviest weapons police possess are machine guns, the rebel General Queipo de Llano sends in artillery and heavily armed troops. Seville falls to the rebels.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Prime Minister Quiroga resigns
General Franco arrived in Tetuán, Spanish Morocco in Northern Africa, where he will lead the rebels in their revolt against the Spanish government.
Prime Minister Casares Quiroga resigns as chief of the Republican government. President Azaña is left scrambling. Diego Martínez y Barrio has been asked to fill the position. He will no doubt establish a government as best he can.
Prime Minister Casares Quiroga resigns as chief of the Republican government. President Azaña is left scrambling. Diego Martínez y Barrio has been asked to fill the position. He will no doubt establish a government as best he can.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Rebels take Southern Spain
In high good humor the Moroccan rebels launched their invasion of Spain proper. A troopship loaded with Legionnaires put in at Algeciras near Gibraltar. A rebel torpedo boat shelled the undecided garrison at La Linea, which thereupon joined the revolt. But when La Linea citizens, watching black Moorish troops march into barracks, refused to disperse, the Moors mowed them down with machine guns, blasted them with hand grenades, left La Linea's streets littered with dead. In thousands of commandeered cars, the rebels pushed north, fanning out along the railroads leading toward Madrid.
Manifestoed General Franco from Morocco: "Spain is saved! The Provinces of Andalusia, Valencia, Valladolid, Burgos, Aragon, the Canaries and the Balearic Islands, with their garrisons and civil forces, have joined enthusiastically with us. Only Madrid made an exception in sending its planes to bombard cities and towns without defense, killing women and children. . . . We will demand accounts from them as well as from those still on the fence. . . ."
Spain, however, was by no means saved for General Franco. What he needed most were Madrid and Barcelona. In both cities rebel regiments were shelled into surrender by loyal artillery and planes. The loyal Warship Cervantes sent shells whistling into Cádiz where a body of rebel troops had landed. Loyalists were further heartened by a report that General Franco had lost courage and radioed for a seaplane in which to flee.
The Government's arming of a "Red militia" of workers was what definitely took this week's revolt out of the traditional formula of Latin coups d'état and put it into the class of Russia's revolution of 1917. Last week 6,000 tough Asturian miners marched down from the North to Madrid's assistance, as the Army rebels marched up from the South. Declared the Spanish Government: "Spanish citizens! The movement in insurrection has been subjugated absolutely and it is necessary not to lose the fight."
Further Details of the Uprising in Morocco
In this sultry, tense atmosphere, some Socialists last week leaned out of their headquarters windows in the North African garrison town of Melilla in Spanish Morocco and brashly booed a regiment of the famed Spanish Foreign Legion, marching home from drill. The Legionnaires broke ranks, threw the Socialists out their own windows. At this a huge revolt, carefully planned, erupted into plain view and silence descended on Spain.
General Francisco Franco Bahamonde deserted his post on the Canary Islands, hastened to Melilla, took charge of some 20,000 rebellious Legionnaires, regulars and Moorish native troops. Within a day the rebels controlled all Spanish Morocco, a 200-mile strip of coast across from Gibraltar. When they began broadcasting from the Ceuta radio station, pretending to be the Seville station, announcing the surrender of Madrid to the rebels, sympathetic Army garrisons throughout European Spain joined the revolt. They were defeated in Barcelona and Seville but seized the southern ports of Cádiz and Málaga for a landing by the Moroccan rebels, skirmished in Burgos, Pamplona, Valladolid and Zaragoza. Government planes soared over strongholds dropping, first bombs, then leaflets urging soldiers to rebel against their rebellious officers.
Monday, July 17, 2006
General Franco declares Spain in a "state of war"
The Spanish Foreign Legion continues to rebel in Spanish Morocco on Northern Africa. They hold the territory.
Rebels made considerable headway in Spain itself today. Fighting erupted in Spain and Pamplona, Zaragoza, Oviedo, Salamanca, Segovia, Ávila and Cadiz rest in rebel hands tonight.
General Francisco Franco, from the Canary Islands, made a pronouncement over the radio, that Spain was in a "state of war". His pronunciamiento came within hours of the uprising in Morocco which only strengthens the belief that he is leading this revolt despite his geographic misplacement.
What set it off was the brutal murder early last week of the leader of the Spanish monarchists, able, eloquent Deputy José Calvo Sotelo, onetime Minister of Finance under the late Dictator Primo de Rivera. Calvo had just notified the Government that he planned to interpellate it next day on the riots. Assault Guardsmen called on Calvo with a warrant, took him off in their police car, dumped his body, shot, mangled and bashed, at Madrid's Municipal Cemetery.
Premier Santiago Casares Quiroga promptly suspended Parliament for eight days, and all the Monarchist Deputies swore never to return. Unwisely the Government refused to allow Calvo's body to lie in state anywhere, barred a mob of 30,000 Rightists from the cemetery where he was being buried. When the crowd gave the Fascist shout, "Up Spain!" Assault Guardsmen fired, killed five, wounded three. Forehanded, President Manuel Azaña ordered the Army and Civil Guards mobilized in quarters, ordered a roundup of Rightist leaders, jammed them into jails. Talkative Rightists had begun telling about a great Army revolt that was due any day and that was to have set up José Calvo Sotelo as President of Spain.
Rebels made considerable headway in Spain itself today. Fighting erupted in Spain and Pamplona, Zaragoza, Oviedo, Salamanca, Segovia, Ávila and Cadiz rest in rebel hands tonight.
General Francisco Franco, from the Canary Islands, made a pronouncement over the radio, that Spain was in a "state of war". His pronunciamiento came within hours of the uprising in Morocco which only strengthens the belief that he is leading this revolt despite his geographic misplacement.
What set it off was the brutal murder early last week of the leader of the Spanish monarchists, able, eloquent Deputy José Calvo Sotelo, onetime Minister of Finance under the late Dictator Primo de Rivera. Calvo had just notified the Government that he planned to interpellate it next day on the riots. Assault Guardsmen called on Calvo with a warrant, took him off in their police car, dumped his body, shot, mangled and bashed, at Madrid's Municipal Cemetery.
Premier Santiago Casares Quiroga promptly suspended Parliament for eight days, and all the Monarchist Deputies swore never to return. Unwisely the Government refused to allow Calvo's body to lie in state anywhere, barred a mob of 30,000 Rightists from the cemetery where he was being buried. When the crowd gave the Fascist shout, "Up Spain!" Assault Guardsmen fired, killed five, wounded three. Forehanded, President Manuel Azaña ordered the Army and Civil Guards mobilized in quarters, ordered a roundup of Rightist leaders, jammed them into jails. Talkative Rightists had begun telling about a great Army revolt that was due any day and that was to have set up José Calvo Sotelo as President of Spain.
Violence erupts in Morocco
Spanish Legionnaires posted in Spanish-held Morocco rose up earlier today in a wave a violence. The Spanish Foreign Legion posted in Africa have imprisoned General Gomez and murdered General Manuel Morales, sources report. Rebellion and fighting continue throughout Spanish Morocco.
General Fancisco Franco, whom some believe is involved in the Army uprising in Spanish Morocco is in the Canary Islands.
Spain itself has been having deep political and economic problems.
General Fancisco Franco, whom some believe is involved in the Army uprising in Spanish Morocco is in the Canary Islands.
Spain itself has been having deep political and economic problems.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Friday, March 24, 2006
Great Britain unconcerned with Rhineland
Great Britain seems to be fairly unconcerned with Germany's military moving back into the Rhineland. Lord Lothian stated that is was no more than the Germans walking into their own backyard.
Thus far there have been no rallies or protests by the public against the German action. Also, it appears the House of Commons is pro-German. However, Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin noted that the House is really just afraid of war. With the worldwide depression, Great Britain lacks the resources to engage in a war with Germany.
Thus far there have been no rallies or protests by the public against the German action. Also, it appears the House of Commons is pro-German. However, Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin noted that the House is really just afraid of war. With the worldwide depression, Great Britain lacks the resources to engage in a war with Germany.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
France is Bankrupt
Today, Wilfrid Baumgartner, the director of the Mouvement général des fonds, reported to the government that France for all intents and purposes was bankrupt.
France has been struggling financially since the end of last year. The franc has slid so much in the past few months that the government is nearly depleted. The country is in dire need as so many other countries in the world today, of a line of credit to stay afloat.
This development rules out and action France might take against Germany's remilitarization of the Rhineland and its repeated violations of the Treaty of Versailles.
France has been struggling financially since the end of last year. The franc has slid so much in the past few months that the government is nearly depleted. The country is in dire need as so many other countries in the world today, of a line of credit to stay afloat.
This development rules out and action France might take against Germany's remilitarization of the Rhineland and its repeated violations of the Treaty of Versailles.
Tuesday, March 7, 2006
Hitler moves troops into the Rhineland
Earlier today, Hitler ordered troops to enter the Rhineland. The Rhineland is an western area in Germany that borders France.
Just as much of the German violations of the Treaty of Versailles, it has met little in the way of opposition. In fact, the Western Powers have done nothing.
Poland has proposed putting the Franco-Polish Military Alliance into action but nothing has come of it.
Early this morning, nineteen German infantry battalions and a handful of planes entered the Rhineland and made the River Rhine by 11 AM local time.
French troops have congregated on the Franco-German border but none have crossed the border itself.
Just as much of the German violations of the Treaty of Versailles, it has met little in the way of opposition. In fact, the Western Powers have done nothing.
Poland has proposed putting the Franco-Polish Military Alliance into action but nothing has come of it.
Early this morning, nineteen German infantry battalions and a handful of planes entered the Rhineland and made the River Rhine by 11 AM local time.
French troops have congregated on the Franco-German border but none have crossed the border itself.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Police order to arrest Anti-Semitic Instigators
Despite the rise in Anti-Semitic rhetoric and passions on continental Europe, cooler heads prevail in England. Yesterday, London police were ordered to arrest any Anti-Semitic agitators. This effectively destroys any chance for ferment of Anti-Semitic feelings in England. It would also make it increasingly difficult for these nationalist groups to prosper in jolly old England.
Friday, February 17, 2006
House passes Neutrality Extension
Only twenty minutes of debate on each side was allowed in the House. Questions and amendments were prohibited under the specific gag rule. The vote was 353 to 27.
In the Senate, the act has been delayed. Chairman Pittman of the Foreign Relations Committee attempted to obtain consideration of the resolution today, but finally agreed to put it off until 11 AM tomorrow. Senators McNary and Vandenberg asked for postponement due to the absence of Neautrality Act opponents Clark and Nye.
Memebers of both Houses have explained that haste is necessary because of the arms embargo provisions of the existing law expire on February 29th.
During the twenty minutes allotted, seven Representatives shared the time to debate against the resolution. Representative Maas of Minnesota called the measure a "dangerous bill".
Representative Robison of Kentucky "as a sincere advocate of peace" protested against the passage of the resolution. He said that it would delegate the war-making power to the President, and urged that it be kept in the hands of Congress "where it belongs".
After this, the House will allow ten days to consideration of the Navy and Army Appropriation Bills.
In the Senate, the act has been delayed. Chairman Pittman of the Foreign Relations Committee attempted to obtain consideration of the resolution today, but finally agreed to put it off until 11 AM tomorrow. Senators McNary and Vandenberg asked for postponement due to the absence of Neautrality Act opponents Clark and Nye.
Memebers of both Houses have explained that haste is necessary because of the arms embargo provisions of the existing law expire on February 29th.
During the twenty minutes allotted, seven Representatives shared the time to debate against the resolution. Representative Maas of Minnesota called the measure a "dangerous bill".
Representative Robison of Kentucky "as a sincere advocate of peace" protested against the passage of the resolution. He said that it would delegate the war-making power to the President, and urged that it be kept in the hands of Congress "where it belongs".
After this, the House will allow ten days to consideration of the Navy and Army Appropriation Bills.
Monday, February 13, 2006
Neutrality Act Extension to go back to Congress
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee unanimously recommended to the Senate today the extension, with only minor modifications, of the existing Neutrality Act until May 1, 1937. The move was made with the intent of shelving further neutrality discussion at this session of Congress.
Representative Kloeb of Ohio introduced a parallel measure in the House, and said he would ask the Foreign Affairs Committee to report it favorably as soon as possible. It is apparent the administration is working to push the extension through congress before the February 29th expiration.
Secretary Hull also noted that the administration would not oppose the dropping of its own neutrality proposal.
Senator Clark opposes the plan of putting consideration of a permanent neutrality policy over to the next session of Congress. He plans to amend the Pittman continuing resolution so that the present temporary plan would extended for only a matter of 60 days.
He noted that just because its an election year and members are involved in their respective campaigns, for action to be deferred.
Senator Johnson also has commented that many people are mistaken about the virtue of the neutrality act. He believes that the act would likely involved the nation in another war rather than keep us out.
Representative Kloeb of Ohio introduced a parallel measure in the House, and said he would ask the Foreign Affairs Committee to report it favorably as soon as possible. It is apparent the administration is working to push the extension through congress before the February 29th expiration.
Secretary Hull also noted that the administration would not oppose the dropping of its own neutrality proposal.
Senator Clark opposes the plan of putting consideration of a permanent neutrality policy over to the next session of Congress. He plans to amend the Pittman continuing resolution so that the present temporary plan would extended for only a matter of 60 days.
He noted that just because its an election year and members are involved in their respective campaigns, for action to be deferred.
Senator Johnson also has commented that many people are mistaken about the virtue of the neutrality act. He believes that the act would likely involved the nation in another war rather than keep us out.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
War could cost $10 Billion a year, War Department estimates
The United States War Department released an estimate of costs should the US become involed in another war. Colonel Charles T. Harris, director of the planning branch of the War Department spoke about this last night.
Colonel Harris predicted that if war should erupt, the plans which have been prepared by the War Department would enable the mobilization of industry much more efficiently and rapidly, and with far less profiteering than was case in the World War.
Of course he did say that it would be necessary to gurantee the industry "a modest, fair profit" in undertaking tasks the costs of shich could not be accurately estimated in advance.
Among the necessary industrial controls he listed the powers of price fixing, of assigning priorities, the power of the commander, the power to requisition, the power to license industries, and the power to conserve necessary materials and avoid waste. Of the last power he said "It is necessary to cut the cuff a man's trousers to save materials, we'll do so."
Colonel Harris estimated that approximately half of the War Department's expenditure would be primarily commercial purposes such as food and clothing and half for munitions and explosives. He said that the department's experts had already surveyed 20,000 manufacturers and allocated war tasks to 12,000.
Although the United States is unquestionably the most favored nation in the world in the amount and variety of its raw materials, it would be seriously lacking in many strategic materials, such as manganese, tin, nickel, chromium, quinine and hemp, he said.
"In these days, when there's talk of embargoes, sanctions, neutrality acts, that's worth thinking about," he remarked.
Captain W.S. Bruberg of the Ordinance Department said that since the World War the US has assumed "the practically undisputed leadership in ordinance design throughout the world," although it was forced to rely on its allies for most of the ordinance designs in the World War.
Colonel Harris predicted that if war should erupt, the plans which have been prepared by the War Department would enable the mobilization of industry much more efficiently and rapidly, and with far less profiteering than was case in the World War.
Of course he did say that it would be necessary to gurantee the industry "a modest, fair profit" in undertaking tasks the costs of shich could not be accurately estimated in advance.
Among the necessary industrial controls he listed the powers of price fixing, of assigning priorities, the power of the commander, the power to requisition, the power to license industries, and the power to conserve necessary materials and avoid waste. Of the last power he said "It is necessary to cut the cuff a man's trousers to save materials, we'll do so."
Colonel Harris estimated that approximately half of the War Department's expenditure would be primarily commercial purposes such as food and clothing and half for munitions and explosives. He said that the department's experts had already surveyed 20,000 manufacturers and allocated war tasks to 12,000.
Although the United States is unquestionably the most favored nation in the world in the amount and variety of its raw materials, it would be seriously lacking in many strategic materials, such as manganese, tin, nickel, chromium, quinine and hemp, he said.
"In these days, when there's talk of embargoes, sanctions, neutrality acts, that's worth thinking about," he remarked.
Captain W.S. Bruberg of the Ordinance Department said that since the World War the US has assumed "the practically undisputed leadership in ordinance design throughout the world," although it was forced to rely on its allies for most of the ordinance designs in the World War.
Monday, October 3, 2005
Italian forces have crossed the Mareb River
This morning at 5 local time, Italian troops in Eritrea crossed the Mareb River into Abyssinia. There was no declaration of war from either nation. More as this story develops.
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Abyssinia mobilizes
The Abyssinian Empire made the decision to mobilize after exhausting many avenues to peace at its disposal. Emperor Selassie has little to give his army but they will have to make do with what they have. The Abyssinian Army has about 500.000 new recruits with spears and bows as weapons.
Abyssinia does have military weaponry but these are antiquated. They have 200 pieces of artillery mounted on rigid gun carriages. They also posses 50 anti-aircraft guns ranging from 20mm Oerlikons, 75mm Schneiders and Vickers. For tanks, they have some Fiat models and Ford Trucks with armor. For air support, they have three Potez-25 biplanes.
There are 400,000 rifles of many types in all conditions for the men to use.
The Bottom Line: Abyssinia is very ill-equipped for war with Italy.
Abyssinia does have military weaponry but these are antiquated. They have 200 pieces of artillery mounted on rigid gun carriages. They also posses 50 anti-aircraft guns ranging from 20mm Oerlikons, 75mm Schneiders and Vickers. For tanks, they have some Fiat models and Ford Trucks with armor. For air support, they have three Potez-25 biplanes.
There are 400,000 rifles of many types in all conditions for the men to use.
The Bottom Line: Abyssinia is very ill-equipped for war with Italy.
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Abyssinia pleads again
The Italians continue to threaten the Empire of Abyssinia from across the border. Abyssinia pleads today for neutral observers in attempts to use whatever international bodies as possible.
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Germany's Newest Laws
Recently, the Nazi Party had its annual rally at Nuremberg. During this rally, new laws were approved on 15th of this month, some 3 days ago. These laws will mostly effect Jews living in Germany. The laws, translated into English:The first law is the "Law for Protection of German Blood and German Honor".
"Entirely convinced that the purity of German blood is essential to the further existence of the German people, and inspired by the uncompromising determination to safeguard the future of the German nation, the Reichstag has unanimously resolved upon the following law, which is promulgated herewith:"Section 1
1) Marriages between Jews and citizens of German or kindred blood are forbidden. Marriages concluded in defiance of this law are void, even if, for the purpose of evading this law, they were concluded abroad.2) Proceedings for annulment may be initiated only by the Public Prosecutor.
Section 2
Sexual relations outside marriage between Jews and nationals of German or kindred blood are forbidden.Section 3
Jews will not be permitted to employ female citizens of German or kindred blood as domestic servants.Section 4
1) Jews are forbidden to display the Reich and national flag or national colors.2) On the other hand they are permitted to display the Jewish colors. The exercise of this right is protected by the State.
Section 5
1) A person who acts contrary to the prohibition of Section 1 will be punished with hard labour.2) A person who acts contrary to the prohibition of Section 2 will be punished with imprisonment or with hard labour.
3) A person who acts contrary to the provisions of Section 3 or 4 will be punished with imprisonment up to a year and with a fine, or with one of these penalties.
Section 6
The Reich minister of the Interior in agreement with the Deputy Führer and the Reich Minister of Justice will issue legal and administrative regulations required for the enforcement and supplementing of this law.Section 7
The law will become effective on the day of its promulgation; Section 3 however, not until 1 January 1936.
The second of the laws is called "The Reich Citizenship Law"
Article 1
1) A subject of the State is a person who belongs to the protective union of the German Reich, and who therfore has particular obligations towards the Reich.2) The status of subject is acquired in accordance with the provisions of the Reich and State Law of Citizenship.
Article 2
1) A citizen of the Reich is that subject only who is of German or kindred blood and who, through his conduct, shows that he is desirous and fit to serve the German people and Reich faithfully.2) The right to citizenship is acquired by the granting of Reich citizenship papers.
3) Only the citizen of the Reich enjoys full political rights in accordance with the provision of the laws.
Article 3
The Reich Minister of the Interior in conjunction with the Deputy Führer will issue the necessary legal and administrative decrees for carrying out and supplementing this law.
Saturday, September 3, 2005
League exonerates both beligerents
Both Abyssinia and Italy have been exonerated of the Walwal incident. The reasoning is that they both believed it was within their borders.
What this actually does remains to be seen.
What this actually does remains to be seen.
Thursday, September 1, 2005
President signs Neutrality Act
Congress passed the neutrality act and the President signed it yesterday.
The act would prohibit sales of arms and materials to any party if war should break out in Europe. It also stipulates that American citizen travelling does so at his or her own risk.
President Roosevelt said that the new law would require American vessels to obtain a license to carry arms, would restrict Americans from sailing on ships from hostile nations and would impose an embargo on the sale of arms to "belligerent" nations.
It provides the strongest language yet warning other countries that the U.S. would increase its patrol of foreign submarines lurking in American waters. This stated neutrality is mostly a response to Germany's insistence on rebuilding her forces despite the Treaty of Versailles prohibiting such.
The President lobbied congress for the Executive ability to impose economic sanctions on nations at the Presidential discretion. Congress did not take this option and has chosen a complete neutrality.
The act will expire in six months on February 29th.
The act would prohibit sales of arms and materials to any party if war should break out in Europe. It also stipulates that American citizen travelling does so at his or her own risk.
President Roosevelt said that the new law would require American vessels to obtain a license to carry arms, would restrict Americans from sailing on ships from hostile nations and would impose an embargo on the sale of arms to "belligerent" nations.
It provides the strongest language yet warning other countries that the U.S. would increase its patrol of foreign submarines lurking in American waters. This stated neutrality is mostly a response to Germany's insistence on rebuilding her forces despite the Treaty of Versailles prohibiting such.
The President lobbied congress for the Executive ability to impose economic sanctions on nations at the Presidential discretion. Congress did not take this option and has chosen a complete neutrality.
The act will expire in six months on February 29th.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Debate over Neutrality Act
Today was an exciting day on Capital Hill. Senate Joint Resolution No. 173 was debated by both chambers of Congress and later voted on. This controversial legislature was finally passed.
There of course was criticism of Roosevelt and this course of action. Senator Tom Connally, Democrat from Texas went on Congressional record on the saying
Is it an expression of neutrality to say to two warring nations, one of which has ambitions for territorial conquest, the other unprepared, the other weak, the other trying to pursue its own destiny—is it neutral to say to those nations, "We shall give arms to neither of you," thereby insuring the triumph of the prepared nation, the covetous nation, the ambitious nation, the nation which seeks by force of arms to impose its will on a weaker and defenseless nation?
Mr. President, that is not neutrality; that is a form of unneutrality. That is a form of declaration which announces that the United States will take the side of the strong and powerful against the weak, the unprepared, and the defenseless. Why not leave that determination to the President of the United States when and if, in his conduct of our foreign relations, it becomes a sound American policy for him to take a position in a crisis of that kind?
We cannot now put the United States into an international strait jacket and thereby keep out of war. We cannot by an act of Congress put the United States into a concrete cast internationally which will fit all future occasions and solve all future problems
Across the Atlantic Ocean in Great Britain there has also been critics. Liberal member David Marshall Mason remarked that the Neutrality Act was pre-emptive. He said "No act of war so far has been committed by Italy against Ethiopia, therefore the resolution is premature."
Later, he seemed to go back on this statement when he said "...it is a direct encouragement to Italy to proceed with her war of aggression against Ethiopia by proclaiming to the world that in such an event the United States intends to remain neutral. I trust the powers composing the League will carry out the resolutions of the League and that powers outside the League, such as Germany and Japan, will act sympathetically."
Mister Mason continued his statement with a conditional: "Should the powers stand up to the their covenant, I pray and trust peace will be preserved, and such a decision does not rule out the possibility of still meeting the just aspirations of Italy for an honorable settlement."
It's a provocative statement on the times but the fate of a sovereign nation is still within the hands of those duly elected to serve it. The League has not the power to force a nation to create war when it wishes not to.
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Update on Abyssinian Crisis
The League of Nations continues to do nothing to avert a looming war. When a deadline they selected came they noted that no fifth power had been selected to join in the talks with Italy and Abyssinia. Then the body limited talks between Italy and Abyssinia to anything except the sovereignty of Walwal.
Abyssinia has pled for a lifting on the arms embargo and officially did so today. They, unlike Italy, are poorly equipped for war with a European power.
Abyssinia has pled for a lifting on the arms embargo and officially did so today. They, unlike Italy, are poorly equipped for war with a European power.
Monday, July 25, 2005
Great Britain steps in
As the Abyssinian Crisis continues, Abyssinia asks for neutral observers on June 19th and Great Britain moves in to stop a possible war. They sent Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Anthony Eden to negotiate peace in late June.
However, Mussolini is bent only on conquest of Abyssinia. Eden returned to Britain with nothing accomplished.
The response from Great Britain is that the Royal Navy will be clearing all of its ships from the Mediterranean Sea in the event war breaks out.
The League of Nations has also imposed a ban on armaments to both nations.
However, Mussolini is bent only on conquest of Abyssinia. Eden returned to Britain with nothing accomplished.
The response from Great Britain is that the Royal Navy will be clearing all of its ships from the Mediterranean Sea in the event war breaks out.
The League of Nations has also imposed a ban on armaments to both nations.
Saturday, July 9, 2005
Italian-Abyssinian talks crumble
The two states have been talking in the Hague since June 25th. But the past weeks have been for naught: the talks have dissolved as of today. Both countries are exactly where they were when they started the talks.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Abyssinia and Italy meet
The two nations have quarreled now for months. Today they are meeting in the Hague to come to some agreement that will not being them to outright war.
Sunday, June 19, 2005
The Anglo-German Naval Agreement
After two weeks of negotiations, Germany and Great Britain have finalized an agreement between the two nations regarding Naval building. It is now known as the Anglo-German Naval Agreement (A.G.N.A.)
The Germans will be limited to only 35% of the British Royal Navy. In addition, Germany would have to build a balanced fleet so as not to concentrate their materials into one class of ship.
The agreement as it has been agreed to:
The Germans will be limited to only 35% of the British Royal Navy. In addition, Germany would have to build a balanced fleet so as not to concentrate their materials into one class of ship.
The agreement as it has been agreed to:
"Exchange of Notes between His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom and the German Government regrading the Limitation of Naval Armaments-London, June 18, 1935.
(1)
Sir Samuel Hoare to Herr von Ribbentrop Your Excellency, Foreign Office, June 18, 1935
During the last the last few days the representatives of the German Government and His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom have been engaged in conversations, the primary purpose of which has been to prepare the way for the holding of a general conference on the subject of the limitation of naval armaments. I have now much pleasure in notifying your Excellency of the formal acceptance by His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom of the proposal of the German Government discussed at those conversations that the future strength of the German navy in relation to the aggregate naval strength of the Members of the British Commonwealth of Nations should be in the proportion of 35:100. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom regard this proposal as a contribution of the greatest importance to the cause of future naval limitation. They further believe that the agreement which they have now reached with the German government, and which they regard as a permament and definite agreement as from to-day between the two Governments, will facilitate the conclusion of a general agreement on the subject of naval limitation between all the naval Powers of the world.
2. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom also agree with the explanations which were furnished by the German representatives in the course of the recent discussions in London as the method of application of this principle. These explanations may be summarised as follows:-
(a) The ratio of 35:100 is to be a permanent relationship, i.e. the total tonnage of the German fleet shall never exceed a percentage of 35 of the aggregate tonnage of the naval forces, as defined by treaty, of the Members of the British Commonwealth of Nations, or, if there should in future, be no treaty limitations of the Members of the British Commonwealth of Nations.
(b) If any future general treaty of naval limitation should not adopt the method of limitation by agreed rations between the fleets of different Powers, the German Government will not insist on the incorporation of the ratio mentioned in the preceding sub-paragraph in such future general treaty, provided that the method therein adopted fo the future limitation of naval armaments is such as to give Germany full guarantees that this ratio can be maintained.
(c) Germany will adhere to the ratio 35:100 in all circumstances, e.g. the ratio will not be affected by the construction of other Powers. If the general equilibrium of naval armaments,as normally maintained in the past, should be violently upset by any abnormal and exceptional construction by other Powers, the German Government reserve the right to invite His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom to examine the new situation thus created.
(d)The German Government favour, the matter of limition of naval armaments, that system which divides naval vessels into categories, fixing the maximum tonnage and/or armament for vessels in each category, and allocates the tonnage to be allowed to each Power by categories of vessels. Consequently in principle, and subject to (f) below, the German Government are prepared to apply the 35 per cent. ratio to the tonnage of each category of vessel to be maintained, and to make any variation of this ratio in a particular category or categories dependent on the arrangements to this end that may be arrived at in a future general treaty on naval limitation, such arrangements being based on the principle that any increase in one category would be compensated for by a corresponding reduction in others. If no general treaty on naval limitation should be concluded, or if the future general treaty should not contain provision creating limitation by categories, the manner and degree in which the German Government will have the right to vary the 35 pe cent. ration in one or more categories wil be a matter for settlement by agreement between the German Government and His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom, in the light of the naval situation then existing.
(e) If, and for so long as other important naval Powers retain a single category for cruisers and destroyers, Germany shall enjoy the right to have a single category for these two classes of vessels, although she would prefer to see these classes in two categories.
(f) In the matter of submarines, however, Germany, while not exceeding the ratio of 35:100 in respect of total tonnage, shall have the right to possess a submarine tonnage equal to the total submarine tonnage possessed by the Members of the British Commonwealth of Nations. The German Government, however, undertake that, except in the circumstances indicated in the immediately following sentence, Germany's submarine tonnage shall not exceed 45 per cent. of the total of that possessed by the Members of the British Commonwealth of Nations. The German Government reserve the right, in the event of a situation arising, which in their opinion, makes it necessary for Germany to avail herself of her right to a percentage of submarine tonnage exceeding the 45 per cent. above mentioned, to give notice this effect to His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom, and agree that the matter shall be the subject of friendly discussion before the German Government exercise that right.
(g) Since it is highly improbable that the calculation of the 35 per cent. ratio should give for each category of vessels tonnage figures exactly divisible by the maximum individual tonnage permitted for ships in that category, it may be necessary that adjustments should be make in order that Germany shall not be debarred from utilising her tonnage to the full. It has consequently been agreed that the German Government and His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom will settle by common accord what adjustments are necessary for this purpose, and it will be understood that this procedure shall not result in any substantial or permament departure from the ratio 35:100 in respect of total strengths.
3. With reference to sub-paragraph (c) of the explanations set out above, I have the honour to inform you that His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom have taken note of the reservation and recognise in the right therein set out, on the understanding that the 35:100 ratio will be maintained in default of agreement to the contrary between the two Governments.
4. I have the honour to request your Excellency to inform me that the German Government agree that the proposal of the German Government has been correctly set out in the preceding paragraphs of this note.
I have. & c.
SAMUEL HOARE
(2)
(Translation)
Herr von Ribbentrop to Sir Samuel Hoare
Your Excellency, London, June 18, 1935
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's note of to-day's date, in which you were so good as to communicate to me on behalf of His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom the following:-
(Here follows a German translation of paragraphs 1 to 3 of No. 1.)
I have the honour to confirm to your Excellency that the proposal of the German Government is correctly set forth in the foregoing note, and I note with pleasure that His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom accept this proposal.
The German Government, for their part, are also of the opinion that the agreement at which they have now arrived with His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom, and which they regard as a permanent and definite agreement with effect from to-day between the two Governments, will facilitate the conclusion of a general agreement on this question between all the naval Powers of the world.
I have, & c.
JOACHIM VON RIBBENTROP,
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of GermanyMonday, June 6, 2005
Britain agrees to Germany's demand
Despite the initial hostility between the two delegations, owing Ribbentrop's blunt demands, a change of opinion came over the British delegation. In a report to the British Cabinet, that they “definitely of the opinion that, in our own interest, we should accept this offer of Herr Hitler’s while it is still open...If we now refuse to accept the offer for the purposes of these discussions, Herr Hitler will withdraw the offer and Germany will seek to build to a higher level than 35 per cent...Having regard to past history and to Germany’s known capacity to become a serious naval rival of this country, we may have cause to regret it if we fail to take this chance...”
during talks between Sir Robert Craigie, the British Foreign Office’s naval expert and chief of the Foreign Office's American Department and Ribbentrop’s deputy, Admiral Karl-Georg Schuster, the Germans conceded that the 35:100 ratio would take the form of tonnage ratios, during the Germans would more or less build their tonnage up to whatever the British tonnage was in various warship categories.
In the afternoon, the British Cabinet voted to accept the 35:100 ratio, and Ribbentrop was informed of the Cabinet’s acceptance in the evening.
during talks between Sir Robert Craigie, the British Foreign Office’s naval expert and chief of the Foreign Office's American Department and Ribbentrop’s deputy, Admiral Karl-Georg Schuster, the Germans conceded that the 35:100 ratio would take the form of tonnage ratios, during the Germans would more or less build their tonnage up to whatever the British tonnage was in various warship categories.
In the afternoon, the British Cabinet voted to accept the 35:100 ratio, and Ribbentrop was informed of the Cabinet’s acceptance in the evening.
Sunday, June 5, 2005
Ribbentrop demands a new ratio
Joachim von Ribbentrop, the German representative in talks to increase German Naval re-armaments, has demanded that the British accept a ratio of 35:100. This would mean that for every 100 tonnes that the British had, the Germans could build 35 tonnes.
British Foreign Secretary Sir John Simon was visibly angry with the opening demand made by the German delegates. He remarked “It is not usual to make such conditions at the beginning of negotiations”. He promptly left the talks.
British Foreign Secretary Sir John Simon was visibly angry with the opening demand made by the German delegates. He remarked “It is not usual to make such conditions at the beginning of negotiations”. He promptly left the talks.
Thursday, June 2, 2005
Britain talks to Germany
After Germany began to re-militarize, nothing but official protests came from the Western European powers of Great Britain and France. It appears the are less concerned with the military restrictions within the Treaty of Versailles than economic ones in the form of reparations. It is these reparations that Germany has been burdened with that has led to political upheaval with the cash strapped Germany.
Great Britain has had many who have believed that the restrictions placed on Germany were too harsh. They were the ones that France, a country that suffered greatly during the Great War, had pressured the other allies for during the Peace talks after armistice.
As such, the British have elected to talk to Germany about their military situation. Joachim von Ribbentrop, formerly a champaigne businessman, has arrived in London today to discuss the details of an agreement between the two nations. More as this story develops.
Great Britain has had many who have believed that the restrictions placed on Germany were too harsh. They were the ones that France, a country that suffered greatly during the Great War, had pressured the other allies for during the Peace talks after armistice.
As such, the British have elected to talk to Germany about their military situation. Joachim von Ribbentrop, formerly a champaigne businessman, has arrived in London today to discuss the details of an agreement between the two nations. More as this story develops.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
League of Nations resolves to do nothing much
The League of Nations met during a special session from May 21-22 to discuss the Abyssinian Crisis. Though much was said, nothing is being done.
At this time, the League has resolved to meet if no fifth arbitrator has been selected by June 25, or if a settlement was not reached by August 25. They can offer little hope to Abyssinia which finds itself with a knife to its throat.
At this time, the League has resolved to meet if no fifth arbitrator has been selected by June 25, or if a settlement was not reached by August 25. They can offer little hope to Abyssinia which finds itself with a knife to its throat.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
Great Britain accepts Hitler ovetures
After Hitler's speech in Berlin yesterday, the British cabinet met today and voted to formally take up Hitler on his offer. Advice had come from Sir Eric Phipps, the British Ambassador to Germany, that no chance at a naval agreement with Germany should be lost “owing to French shortsightedness”. In addition, Admiral Chatfield also informed the cabinet that they should not oppose Hitler's offer but what the reactions of the French will be to it are more uncertain and its reaction on our own battleship replacement still more so."
The two countries will meet in the coming days to negotiate the details of an agreement between the two nations. It is unknown if Great Britain has had any communications with Italy or France regarding this new development.
The two countries will meet in the coming days to negotiate the details of an agreement between the two nations. It is unknown if Great Britain has had any communications with Italy or France regarding this new development.
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Hitler defines German Naval future
Chancellor Hitler, in a speech in Berlin today, made overtures toward discussing German militarization with Great Britain. He said "The German Reich government recognizes of itself the overwhelming importance for existence and thereby the justification of dominance at sea to protect the British Empire, just as, on the other hand, we are determined to do everything necessary in protection of our own continental existence and freedom".
In the speech he also noted that Germany has no intentions of returning to the Naval Arms Race that dominated the Atlantic ocean in the years proceeding 1914 and the outbreak of the Great War. The speech carried an air of quid pro quo. The Germans would like to assume a superiority of the continental Europe while offering their respect of Great Britain's mastery of the seas.
In the speech he also noted that Germany has no intentions of returning to the Naval Arms Race that dominated the Atlantic ocean in the years proceeding 1914 and the outbreak of the Great War. The speech carried an air of quid pro quo. The Germans would like to assume a superiority of the continental Europe while offering their respect of Great Britain's mastery of the seas.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Abyssinian protests
Though it seemed the crisis was subduing, the Italians are unwilling to stop the military buildup in their colonies bordering the Empire of Abyssinia. Abyssinia is protesting the buildup considering the mixed message it sends.
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Simon visits Hitler
Sir John Simon, the British Foreign Secretary, is in Germany today to speak with Chacellor Hitler of that country's efforts to re-arm. Though this is a violation of the Treaty of Versailles, there seems to be room for diplomatic wrangling.
Recently, Hitler has declared that all articles in the Treaty of Versailles relating to Germany's militarization have been rejected. As a completely new government than the one that signed the Treaty, this is possible. However, it is quite unusual.
Recently, Hitler has declared that all articles in the Treaty of Versailles relating to Germany's militarization have been rejected. As a completely new government than the one that signed the Treaty, this is possible. However, it is quite unusual.
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
Italians yield
After three and half months of appeals by the Abyssinian Empire to the League of Nations, something has finally happened. Italy has finally yielded to the League of Nations on arbitration of the Walwal Incident that occurred December 5th.
Friday, March 18, 2005
Abyssinia makes another appeal
The Abyssinian Crisis continues. On February 23rd, the Italians began to increase the troop level in the neighboring colonies of Eritrea and Italian Somaliland. With little international protest to these actions, Mussolini continued undeterred.
On March 8, Abyssinia again requests arbitration and notes Italian military build-up that no one seems to care about.
On March 13, Italy and Abyssinia agree on a neutral zone in the Ogaden. Yesterday, Abyssinia again appealed to the League due to continued Italian build-up that shows no sign of decreasing.
On March 8, Abyssinia again requests arbitration and notes Italian military build-up that no one seems to care about.
On March 13, Italy and Abyssinia agree on a neutral zone in the Ogaden. Yesterday, Abyssinia again appealed to the League due to continued Italian build-up that shows no sign of decreasing.
Thursday, March 17, 2005
Germany violates Treaty of Versailles
In clear violation of the Treaty of Versailles, Germany's Chancellor Adolf Hitler has ordered the rearmament of Germany. Germany was limited to only 100,000 men in its armed forces with even fewer arms. Military Conscription was also reintroduced to facilitate a better military.
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Germany's Air Force
Yesterday, Germany announced the existence of the Luftwaffe. Unofficially, this has been known since February 26th.
In clear violation of the Treaty of Versailles, the government of Germany has been producing planes for two years. There has been no reaction from Great Britain or France.
At this time, Great War Ace Pilot and President Hermann Göring is the Minister and Oberbefehlshaber of the Luftwaffe.
In clear violation of the Treaty of Versailles, the government of Germany has been producing planes for two years. There has been no reaction from Great Britain or France.
At this time, Great War Ace Pilot and President Hermann Göring is the Minister and Oberbefehlshaber of the Luftwaffe.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)