On This Day: Maine Newspapers React to Kristallnacht

Kristallnacht was not hidden. In the days that followed the November 9th violence against the Jews of Germany, newspapers around the world reported on and responded to what had happened. Diplomats, reporters, and eye-witnesses did not hesitate to condemn the violence and atrocities committed against the Jews. Even the Bangor Daily News ran a front-page article on November 14, 1938, proclaiming “German Jews Facing Ruin Are in Panic” as it reported that “anti-Jewish riots” convulse the Third Reich. While virtually all expressed horror and anger at events, none of these reactions translated into any concrete efforts to chastise Hitler or aid the Jews. Washington recalled its ambassador, but no other country broke off diplomatic relations with Germany. There were no sanctions. Emigration opportunities for Jews remained blocked. The world wrung its hands and did nothing, and Hitler watched and learned.

• Bangor Daily News, November 11, 1938

• Bangor Daily News, November 12, 1938

• Bangor Daily News, November 14, 1938, Page 28

• Bangor Daily News, November 14, 1938 Page 1

• Bangor Daily News, November 15, 1938,

• Bangor Daily News, November 16, 1938

• Portland Press Herald, November 11, 1938

• Portland Press Herald, November 12, 1938

• Portland Press Herald, November 14, 1938

• Portland Press Herald, November 15, 1938