860C.4016/12–1645: Telegram
The Ambassador in Poland (Lane) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 9, 1946—10:52 a.m.]
678. Re unnumbered telegram from Berlin from Elbrick,26 December 11, 5 p.m.27 I am convinced that reports regarding persecution of Jews and pogroms in Poland are greatly exaggerated. There is no doubt of widespread anti-Semitic feeling in Poland caused by traditional hostility between Poles and Jews and due to general unpopularity of present govt in which several Jews hold key positions. I have personally investigated reports regarding alleged pogrom in Krakow last August and am convinced this was isolated demonstration of ill feeling which broke out because of irresponsible acts of some young hoodlums. Treatment of Jews is, in my opinion, no worse than that received by Poles now returning from Soviet Union.
[Page 1215]In fairness, it should be pointed out that Polish Govt is allowing Jews to leave Poland freely although Polish citizens of the Polish race find the greatest difficulty to obtain exit permits to leave the country.
Sent to Berlin as 159; repeated to Dept as 678.