Published to coincide with the 50th anniversary of America’s entry into World War II, this volume chronicles the careers of eight USA Zone commentators who worked for Nazi propagandist Josef Goebbels. Drawing upon a variety of documentary sources - letters written by the subjects to family, friends and colleagues; treason trial transcripts; the contents of the BBC’s wartime monitoring service; and FBI case files on the broadcasters - the author explores each broadcaster’s political and personal motivations and the influence of their broadcasts. Berlin Calling also offers a glimpse into the world of Nazi bureaucracy and the organization of Nazi radio propaganda and highlights the uneven US approach to the indictment, prosecution, conviction and sentencing of these radio traitors. Beginning with an introductory chapter that outlines the formation of the USA Zone and profiles its pioneer American broadcasters, the author goes on to present biographies of the five major commentators: Jane Anderson, Max Otto Koischwitz, Robert Best, Douglas Chandler and Donald Day. By examining each broadcaster’s background, career, professional relationships, political leanings and roots in America, Edwards seeks to answer such questions as: Were these men and women dedicated Nazis or simply opportunists looking for personal financial gain? What motivated them to denounce Roosevelt’s New Deal politics so vehemently? and how could these individuals - all bright and talented expatriates - not have recognized the malevolent core of Nazism? In addition to evidence derived from archival records and personal correspondence, the author includes commentaries from celebrities and dignitaries who knew the broadcasters, fictional characterizations of some of them and autobiographical material from the subjects themselves. Three minor journalists are also profiled: Constance Drexel, Mildred Gillars and Ed Delaney.
