British Character and the Treatment of German Prisoners of War, 1939-48

This book explores the attitudes of the British public towards German POWs during World War II,using original archival material to examine how the issue of POW treatment intersected with discussions of state power,human rights,gender relations,civility,and national character.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 225 pages
Publication date: 20 August 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the complex and multifaceted attitudes held by the British public towards German prisoners of war (POWs) during World War II. Drawing upon a wealth of original archival material, including newspaper and newsreel content, diaries, sociological surveys, opinion polls, official documentation, and the archives of pressure groups and protest movements, the study offers a fresh perspective on the treatment of these prisoners.

By shifting the focus of the debate away from conventional assessments that solely examine policy development, diplomatic relations, and the experiences of the POWs themselves, this study pioneers a novel approach. It reveals that the issue of POW treatment was intricately intertwined with broader discussions of state power, human rights, gender relations, civility, and national character.

The book explores a range of themes, including the initial attitudes of the British public towards the German POWs, the evolution of these attitudes over time, and the factors that influenced them. It examines the impact of propaganda, media coverage, and public opinion on public perception and attitudes towards the POWs. Additionally, the study explores the experiences of individual POWs, including their treatment by British soldiers, their interactions with the local community, and their efforts to maintain their dignity and humanity under challenging circumstances.

Through its extensive analysis of primary sources, this book provides a rich and detailed account of the attitudes towards German POWs in Britain during World War II. It sheds light on the complexities of the conflict, the challenges faced by both the British and German governments, and the impact of the war on the lives of ordinary people. The study is a valuable contribution to the field of history and offers valuable insights into the social and cultural dynamics of a pivotal period in world history.

Weight: 315g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030489175
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020