Background: The Illustrierter Beobachter was the Nazi Party’s weekly illustrated magazine. It regularly carried articles on large Nazi rallies, of which this is a typical example.
The source: “Deutschland erwacht! Der Freiheitstag in Gera,” Illustrierter Beobachter, #39/1931 (26 September), pp. 1-3.
A Nazi Rally in Gera, 1931
The cover. Germany awakes! The day of freedom in Gera.
Article text: “Hitler Rally in Gera: 5-6 September 1931. Gera was another milestone in our movement’s march to victory. Every time our opponents hope that we have reached our highpoint, that things will be downhill from now on, the opposite happens.
Once again, tens of thousands marched in Gera under our movement’s victorious symbols. The Führer and Germany showed the whole world that not only the S.A., but the whole movement, is marching in step toward victory. And the fascinating rhythms of the brown columns find an ever stronger and happier reception in the hearts of those who until now have stood afar from us, but are now ready to give themselves fully for the good of their people.
The demonstration in Gera was a meaningful expression of the millions of Germans who believe fanatically in the victory of our movement. That which Adolf Hitler and all the other leaders expressed in these moving days was at the same time the wish and hope of millions, joined in the unshakable will to earn Germany respect, honor, and freedom internationally, and work and prosperity at home. This brutal will is determined to fight until final victory, even if the world is full of devils.”
