DailyTimeCapsule brief
December 6, 1939
On December 6, 1939, Judge Wallace sentenced Kuhn to two to five years in prison, marking a significant moment in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the Bund Trial. This ruling emphasized the judge's condemnation of Kuhn as 'a dispenser of hate,' although he noted that such sentiments did not influence the sentencing. Concurrently, the Finnish relief efforts gained momentum in the United States, as supplies, including blankets and clothing, piled up for those affected by the Winter War. The American Red Cross and Finnish groups launched ambitious fundraising campaigns, targeting $1,000,000 and $250,000 respectively to assist those in need. In local politics, Westchester taxpayers voiced their frustrations over escalating costs and relief expenditures at a packed Little Theatre meeting, where political tensions over budget items were palpable, especially as County Executive Bleakley defended the high levels of aid being provided. This day was marked by a blend of legal, humanitarian, and political developments that reflected the broader societal issues of the time, as America grappled with its role in a world on the brink of war.
Key developments
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Fritz Kuhn, leader of the German American Bund, was sentenced to 2 to 5 years for theft, with Judge Wallace stating that his role as a 'dispenser of hate' did not impact the sentencing. The case highlighted issues of perjury, prompting prosecutors to pursue charges against two Bund trial witnesses. This ruling occurred amidst tensions surrounding pre-World War II nationalist sentiments in the United States.
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On December 6, 1939, a campaign to support Finland during the Winter War saw significant contributions in blankets and clothing. Over 400 passports were issued to volunteers ready to aide the Finnish cause, while American Red Cross efforts began with a target of raising $250,000. Finnish groups aimed for a more ambitious fundraising goal of $1,000,000 to support their homeland.
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TAXPAYERS ASSAIL WESTCHESTER COST; Little Theatre at the County Center Jammed as Speakers Attack Budget Items RELIEF HELD TOO HIGH Bleakley, Replying to Critics, Says Many 'Flock' to the County to Get Aid
