Animation Under the Swastika

Discover the intriguing intersection of animation and politics in Animation Under the Swastika by Rolf Giesen. Published by McFarland & Co Inc in 2012, this insightful paperback spans 245 pages, delving into the lesser-known history of Nazi Germany's fascination with animated films. The book examines how Adolf Hitler and Joseph Goebbels, the notorious Nazi minister of propaganda, were not only avid fans of cartoons but also sought to create a German animation industry that could compete with the likes of Walt Disney. Giesen unveils the complex dynamics of their admiration and rivalry with American filmmakers, revealing their secretive study of foreign films in a bid to shape their own propaganda. This compelling study is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of animation, national socialism, and the impact of media on society.