Lot 116
World War II Airborne Leaflet Propaganda, Collection of 8. Airborne leaflet propaganda was a form of psychological warfare in which leaflets (flyers) were scattered in the air. Military forces used aircraft to drop leaflets in order to alter the behavior of combatants and non-combatants in enemy-controlled territory, sometimes in conjunction with air strikes. Offered is a collection of examples from WWII. First and most compelling is a lurid Japanese flyer, 5 x 7", dropped on Australian ships and territories. The colorful leaflets with explicit artwork suggests the Australians give up the fight so they can go home to protect their families, since "BLACKS" and "YANKS" were raping wives, daughters and sweethearts. Another is a Japanese flyer, 6½ x 10½", warning of American bombings in striking two-color artwork in deep blue-black ink and fiery reds to convey blood and destruction. From Germany, 5 different flyers, all 8 x 11", with 4 dropped on the U.K. urging surrender to the German Army. A 5th flyer aimed at British soldiers, states that "The Yanks" are soliciting and romancing their girlfriends and wives. The final is an American leaflet in English and Japanese dropped on Japanese occupied areas guaranteeing humane treatment on presentation to any American soldier by surrendering or "ceasing resistance". All pieces are in very fine to excellent condition and remarkable tools of war for any collector. Estimated Value $400 - 800
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| Realized $810 |
