840.48 Refugees/4538: Telegram
The Minister in Sweden (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:21 p.m.]
3209. Background action against Jews in Denmark may probably be explained by two considerations: (a) Long desired by more radical Nazis in Berlin and only deferred until now by subordination this question to general German policy of moderation towards Denmark which continued effective until end August; and (b) threat such action undoubtedly used by Germans in September to try and induce Danes cooperate politically (as suggested my 3175, October 2, 4 p.m.33 See also my 3196, October 4, 6 p.m.). Regarding (a), it is likely that Hitler himself became aware during August political crisis that Jewish problem Denmark had never been “properly solved”.
Action will obviously greatly increase tension Denmark and deepen cleft between Danes and German authorities. Believed that all prospects of another Danish Government may now be dismissed.
Interesting [to] note that Germans thought it advisable accompany their action against Jews by promise release interned Danish soldiers in near future (see my 3195, October 433). This suggests clumsy attempt win back Danish good will.
Fact that over 2500 Jews have succeeded escaping to Sweden in last few days deserves mention and indicates excellent organization Danish underground movement which Legation understands decided fortnight ago do everything possible bring Jews across Oresund.
[Page 362]Clear that action against Jews in Denmark is based purely general Nazi policy, as it is well known that there was no Jewish problem there and all evidence shows that Jews have behaved very well and quietly ever since German occupation began as result their continual dread that this might indeed happen. In other words, German allegations given first item my 319335 are simply not true.