Marion Progress

CONQUERED PEOPLES WILL REVOLT
The military mastery of Europe that seems to belong to Nazi Germany is resting on the backs of conquered peoples, who will one day attempt to right the wrongs which they suffer. Let Hitler's regime receive a decisive blow and the embittered peoples will revolt; let the German army begin to retreat and there will be many soldiers left in foreign lands for the long sleep.

Erwin D. Canham, writing recently in the Christian Science Monitor, reviews the news that is trickling out of the occupied countries. Here is a brief summary of the report:

France—Careful surveys, made for Petain, show 90 per cent of the people sympathetic with Britain; small military supplies stored for possible uprising; much espionage for the British.

Belgium—Little information, but picture much same as in France.

Netherlands—Nazi movement made little progress; loyalty to Wilhelmina's government in London; population holding itself in check against premature uprising but determined to regain freedom when the opportunity comes. Good espionage for the British, which the Nazis cannot control.

Denmark—Pro-Nazi Danes overwhelmed by new patriotism, supporting the British; Nazis unable to control vast patriotic outpourings. Good information service for the British.

Norway—Disillusioned, peace-loving people determined to regain freedom; exiled government functioning, perfecting methods of passive resistance and preparation for regaining freedom. When break-up comes Norway likely to turn on captors with fierceness unsurpassed by other peoples. Brave and resourceful Norwegians get out information about Nazi preparations and weaknesses.

Austria—Basis for uprising suspected; some loyal Nazis but much disaffection, capable of trouble later and sabotage now.

Czechoslovakia—Most skillfully prepared of any area, with concealed arms, centuries-old technique of resistance and espionage beyond former efficiency; real capital in London in close touch with homeland; people doggedly determined to live and regain independence.

Poland—Skilled passive resistance but these most battered people are being punished by political police; exist in numbed misery, which will give way to bloody revolt whenever the opportunity comes.

This, we believe, will strengthen the admiration of Americans for the peoples of the conquered lands of Europe and convince some doubters that democracy remains alive in Europe, ready to spring to life when the present affliction is removed.