This map is part of the German effort to persuade the United States to stay out of World War I in Europe. It illustrates an article by Bernhard Dernburg entitled "Germany and the War - Not a Defense But an Explanation," published in New York by "The Fatherland, A Weekly Devoted to Fair Play for Germany and Austria-Hungary.” Dernburg was a successful German banker and diplomat who had served in the foreign office as German Colonial Secretary. "In 1914-1915 Dernburg directed anti-British propaganda in the United States." Ratliff 1991, 170.
The map purports to demonstrate (not very effectively) that "British Naval Stations form a Chain around the Coast of All Nations" rendering international trade - and particularly the trade of the U.S. - "Dependent on the Permission of Great Britain.”
While the article is undated, it was likely published in late 1914. Cornell University Library is pleased to present this digital collection of Persuasive Maps, the originals of which have been collected and described by the private collector PJ Mode. The descriptive information in the “Collector’s Notes” has been supplied by Mr. Mode and does not necessarily reflect the views of Cornell University.
Source:
Dernburg, Bernhard. [1914]. "Germany and the War. Not a Defense But an Explanation." The Fatherland, A Weekly Devoted to Fair Play for Germany and Austria-Hungary. New York City.
