Original Items. Only One Lot Available. Japanese propaganda leaflets were air-dropped and aimed at Allied soldiers. By featuring images of loved ones from home, it was hoped that these soldiers would be persuaded to surrender, especially given Japan’s military successes from late 1941 to early 1942. This is a lovely lot of three dropped on Australian soldiers.

The first depicts the skeletal remains of an Australian soldier chained to the island of New Guinea, where many Australians fought, with a citation from US General Douglas MacArthur jammed into his hands. Below the island the headline printed in black, KILLED IN ACTION! Died that the jungles of New Guinea might rest again in peace. It measures 5 x 7”.

The second depicts a woman looking towards a wall of skulls with the caption “Please! Please come back. Don’t die, it’s terrible to be dead. We need each other. It would be awful if you’re crippled, I wouldn’t know what to do if you were.” This was meant to convince soldiers not to fight because their wives might leave them if they’re crippled. The back has instructions on how to use the leaflet to surrender. It measures 3 ½ x 5”.

The third is titled “SIREN!” depicting a soldier with DEATH disguised as a woman with her arms wrapped around him. The caption reads: “Beware, young man! The lady will get you if yo don’t watch out. You’ll never see those green hills at home again once her clutches tighten on you…. And she’s got a fairly good grip right now… There is only one way out…” This is just meant to scare soldiers who are afraid of the prospect of death. It measures 5 x 7”.

This is a very scarce lot, ready for further research and display!