Interesting WWII Public INformation Leaflet

In summary, the leaflets were meant to warn the population that the tanks they were seeing in the skies might not actually be bombs, and to report any sightings of them to the authorities.
  • #1
BadBrain
196
1
Here's a leaflet which was distributed over Germany and Poland, apparently during the year 1944 (as it refers to the drop tanks which would have been regular equipment aboard the P-51 Mustang long-range escort fighters then being fielded by the 8th Air Force), by the National Socialist government then in power within that area, which leaflet appears as follows:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/72/V-2_Leaflet_testsitearea.jpg

And translates (primarily from the German, as my German is much better than my Polish), as follows:

[In Polish]

NOTICE!

[In German]

Not a bomb!

Report immediately to the nearest police station or military airfield!

ATTENTION!

FUEL CONTAINER!

***

Further, the Polish "To nie bomba!" appears to be the same phrase as the Russian "Eto ne bomba!", or "This is not a bomb!" (once again, my Russian is mush better than my Polish, so gimme a break, hey!).

Finally, the Polish "MATERIAL PE(n)DNY!" means: "PROPELLANT MATERIAL!", or "FUEL!".
 
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  • #2
What was the point of the leaflets? Did they want to recycle these tanks, or just let people know they weren't dangerous?
 
  • #3
zoobyshoe said:
What was the point of the leaflets? Did they want to recycle these tanks, or just let people know they weren't dangerous?

The point was to tell the population that they weren't bombs, but that they were still dangerous, as they might contain considerable amounts of fuel.

The Mustang pilots would drop the tanks as soon as they got into a combat situation, whether the tanks were empty or not.
 
  • #4
BadBrain said:
The point was to tell the population that they weren't bombs, but that they were still dangerous, as they might contain considerable amounts of fuel.

The Mustang pilots would drop the tanks as soon as they got into a combat situation, whether the tanks were empty or not.
I see. An interesting but obscure factoid from WWII.
 
  • #5


I find this leaflet to be a fascinating historical artifact. It provides insight into the propaganda tactics used by the National Socialist government during WWII and their attempts to deceive and manipulate the public. It also sheds light on the technology being used during the war, specifically the drop tanks on P-51 Mustangs.

Additionally, the use of multiple languages on the leaflet highlights the international nature of the conflict and the attempts to reach and influence a wide audience. The fact that it was distributed over both Germany and Poland also speaks to the power dynamics and control of information during the war.

From a scientific perspective, this leaflet also showcases the advancements in aviation technology and the use of fuel as a crucial component in warfare. It serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of war and the lengths that governments will go to in order to achieve their goals.

Overall, this leaflet is a thought-provoking and intriguing piece of history that serves as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of WWII.
 

1. What is a public information leaflet?

A public information leaflet is a document that contains information about a specific topic or issue, often with the purpose of educating or informing the general public.

2. Why were public information leaflets used during WWII?

Public information leaflets were used during WWII as a way to disseminate important information and propaganda to the general population. They were used to promote patriotism, encourage support for the war effort, and provide instructions on how to stay safe during the war.

3. Who created the public information leaflets during WWII?

The public information leaflets during WWII were created by various government agencies and departments, such as the Office of War Information and the War Production Board. They were also created by private organizations, such as the Red Cross and the Boy Scouts.

4. What type of information was included in the public information leaflets?

The information included in the public information leaflets varied, but often included instructions on how to ration food and supplies, how to prevent sabotage, and how to identify and report enemy spies. They also contained propaganda promoting patriotism and support for the war effort.

5. How were public information leaflets distributed during WWII?

Public information leaflets were distributed through various methods, such as direct mail, distribution by volunteers and organizations, and placement in public areas like schools, libraries, and post offices. They were also often included in newspapers and magazines.

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