Rose Colored Glasses: The New York City skyline is reflected in these politically-concious ‘I Like Ike’ sunglasses at a fashion show for a sunglasses manufacturers’ convention in New York. Image by International News/Forward Association

1914 • 100 years ago

Jews of Warsaw Left Penniless

With the onset of the current war, the Jews of Warsaw, Poland, are already experiencing difficulties and privations. The banks have shut down, preventing depositors from retrieving their funds. Many stand outside the banks with their heads in their hands, penniless until the banks permit them to take out their money. Making matters worse, massive processions of Cossacks bearing swords and revolvers have filled the streets of Warsaw. For historical reasons, these shows of force are making Jewish residents very nervous. However, it is suspected that these armed soldiers aren’t actually preparing to go to war, but instead are guarding huge sums of money and gold that the Russian government is moving out of Poland and into Russia.

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1939 • 75 years ago

The Red Army Splits Poland

Sadly, what we predicted has come true: The Red Army has entered Poland and, together with the Nazis, is splitting the country in half. The Soviet newspapers are cursing Poland without a word about the Nazis. But in allegedly “Soviet” areas, the Nazis are operating. In Vilna, for example, the Nazi air force dropped bombs on residents, causing a huge panic. Hundreds of women and children were killed in the streets and in their homes as the Germans bombed residential areas. Thousands of Jews have tried to flee to the Soviet side of the border, but the Red Army has refused to let them cross, another indication that the Nazis and the Soviets are working hand in hand.

1964 • 50 years ago

Vatican says Jews not responsible for Death of Christ

At a special meeting held at the Vatican to absolve the Jews of the charge that they murdered Jesus Christ, a large majority voted that contemporary Jews are not responsible for the death of Jesus, and even Jews during the time of Jesus cannot be held responsible for his crucifixion. One bishop remarked that the Jews of Palestine were no more responsible for the death of Jesus than the residents of Dallas were for the murder of President Kennedy. There was a strong showing of Americans, the majority of whom support the measure. The bishops attending the Ecumenical Council are expected to ratify this text at another meeting in December.

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