You Can't Do Business With Hitler 42-xx-xx ep02 Broken Promises

Summary

Podcast Summary: "You Can't Do Business With Hitler" (Ep02: Broken Promises)

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Release Date: April 22, 2025

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Introduction

In Episode 2 of the series "You Can't Do Business With Hitler," titled "Broken Promises," listeners are immersed in a dramatic reenactment of the treacherous business environment faced by American entrepreneurs in Nazi Germany. Drawing from the real-life experiences of Douglas Miller, the former Commercial Attaché to the American Embassy in Berlin, this episode delves into the manipulative tactics employed by the Nazi regime to undermine and control foreign businesses.

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The Struggle of American Businesses in Nazi Germany

Douglas Miller begins by setting the stage for the dire business climate under Nazi rule. He emphasizes the necessity of completely dismantling the Nazi party to ensure lasting peace:

"To win this war, we must do more than defeat the armies and navies of the active powers. We have to exterminate the Nazi party."
— Douglas Miller [00:28]

Miller explains that the Nazis viewed international trade not as commerce but as a weapon to weaken and destabilize opponents before engaging militarily, employing strategies akin to Blitzkrieg in the economic sphere.

Case Study: Martin T. Johnson and the Lard Import Quota

The episode narrates the plight of Martin T. Johnson, an American businessman attempting to import lard into Germany. Initially granted a quota, Johnson faces sudden reductions imposed by the Nazis:

"The Nazis are permitting us to import lard into Germany. Only up to a quarter of 40%, aren't they?" — Martin T. Johnson [02:30]

Johnson confronts Miller with evidence of Nazi discrimination, revealing a secret treaty favoring Danish exporters:

"According to the secret treaty the German Reich has granted Danish exporters the right to..." — Martin T. Johnson [04:15]

Despite Miller's protests to the German Foreign Office, represented by Herr Hoffman, the entrenched bias and manipulation persist, exemplifying the Nazis' duplicity:

"The Nazis promise us equal treatment and then sneak off and make a secret agreement on the side." — Martin T. Johnson [05:50]

Miller's inability to effectively counter these machinations leads Johnson to resign, highlighting the crippling impact on American businesses:

"You can't do business with Hitler, and that's what happened to Mr. Johnson." — Douglas Miller [07:15]

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The Soft Drink Conundrum: Mr. Hartman's Experience

Another significant case involves Mr. Hartman, an American soft drink manufacturer beleaguered by Nazi interference. Initially, Miller attempts to mediate on Hartman's behalf, uncovering that the Nazis have branded the soft drink as "injurious to health" and demanded the demolition of compliant facilities:

"We've also had trouble with the police. They demand we tear down some of our buildings. They say they don't measure up to the building code." — Mr. Hartman [09:03]

In an attempt to resolve these issues, Miller encounters Carl Kerner, a Nazi Propaganda Leader, who offers a corrupt solution:

"...appoint me a member of his board of directors... $800 a month." — Carl Kerner [10:45]

Hartman's reluctant payment to the Nazi officials results in minimal relief, as the soft drink continues to face unjust bans:

"This Jewish line is merely a blind. Of course, the truth of the matter is Carl Kerner wasn't getting a big enough cut out of that $800, so he banged down on Hartman." — Douglas Miller [12:12]

Despite Miller's further efforts, including engaging with high-ranking officials like Dr. Lay, the entrenched corruption ensures that American businesses remain marginalized and oppressed:

"This is one of the dirtiest pieces of underhanded crookedness I've ever seen." — Douglas Miller [06:50]

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Key Insights and Conclusions

The episode starkly illustrates the futility of attempting to engage in fair business practices under a totalitarian regime like Nazi Germany. Through the experiences of Miller, Johnson, and Hartman, listeners gain a profound understanding of the systemic barriers and ethical compromises forced upon American businessmen.

Douglas Miller concludes with a poignant reflection on the impossibility of maintaining legitimate business relations with the Nazi leadership:

"You can't do business with Hitler." — Douglas Miller [12:29]

This statement encapsulates the overarching theme of the episode, underscoring the betrayal and shattered promises that defined economic interactions during this oppressive era.

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Notable Quotes

• "To win this war, we must do more than defeat the armies and navies of the active powers. We have to exterminate the Nazi party."
  — Douglas Miller [00:28]

• "The Nazis promise us equal treatment and then sneak off and make a secret agreement on the side."
  — Martin T. Johnson [05:50]

• "You can't do business with Hitler, and that's what happened to Mr. Johnson."
  — Douglas Miller [07:15]

• "This Jewish line is merely a blind. Of course, the truth of the matter is Carl Kerner wasn't getting a big enough cut out of that $800, so he banged down on Hartman."
  — Douglas Miller [12:12]

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Conclusion

Episode 2, "Broken Promises," offers a compelling and detailed exploration of the economic subterfuge employed by the Nazi regime to cripple American businesses. Through vivid storytelling and authentic dramatization, listeners are provided with a nuanced perspective on the challenges of conducting business amidst political tyranny. The episode serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities and dangers of international trade under totalitarian rule, reinforcing the series' central message: "You can't do business with Hitler."

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Transcript

[Ryan]

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[Douglas Miller]

BGW prohibited by law. See terms and conditions 18+. You can't do business with Hitler. We are now at war. There are but two alternatives. Total victory or total defeat. There can be no such thing as a military stalemate that would result in the survival of Hitlerism. That is the opinion of a man who knows Douglas Miller. For 15 years Commercial Attache to the American Embassy in Berlin, presenting a radio series adapted from Mr. Miller's book. You can't do business with Hitler. Episode 2 Broken Promises this is Douglas Miller speaking. To win this war, we must do more than defeat the armies and navies of the active powers. We have to exterminate the Nazi party. You can't kill a weed unless you pull out the roots. The Nazis must never again be able to carry on the same vicious kind of propaganda and trade attack they used before this war started. I said trade attack. I mean by that, that international trade, as the Nazis practice it, is a weapon. A weapon to soften up enemies for the military. Blitzkrieg. And during the six year period leading up to the outbreak of the war in 1939, the Nazis continually tried to sabotage American business in Europe. Here's how the Nazis worked it. Consider for example, the case of Martin T. Johnson. Johnson represented an American firm that had been importing lard into Germany and other parts of Europe. One day in 1934, he came to my office in Berlin. I'm heartily fed up with the way Nazis treat American businessmen. The word of a Nazi no better than that of a low grade racketeer. Tell me, what's the trouble? I'll see what I can do. The Nazis are permitting us to import lard into Germany. Only up to a quarter of 40%, aren't they? Yes. In other words, only 40%. As much as you used to import. Sure. And remember when we kicked about getting cut down so low, the Nazi said that every other country was getting the same pieces. True enough. The Nazis have a commercial treaty with the United States. Government promising not to discriminate against American businessmen. What would you say if I told you that the Nazis have deliberately broken that treaty? Broken the treaty? Well how do you know that? Because I've got the go, John. Here, take a look at this magazine article. Let me see. According to the secret treaty the German Reich has granted Danish exporters the right to. Say. What is this? That's a Danish agricultural magazine. And what you are reading is the text of a secret agreement the Nazis have with Denmark granting them the right to import dried up to 65% of the quota. Yes, it's right here in cold frames. Mr. Miller, this is rank discrimination. The Nazis promise us equal treatment and then sneak off and make a secret agreement on the side. Can't you do something about it? Well, as commercial attache of the American Embassy, I can protest to the German Foreign Office. I seem to be forever protesting and getting nowhere. Could I be present when you make the protest? Yes, that can be arranged. I don't know what we'll do, Mr. Johnson. The following day Mr. Johnson and I called at the German Foreign office. We were ushered into the presence of a certain Nazi official. But I assure you Herr Miller, this company of Mr. Johnson's is being treated as well as those of any other consciousness. I don't think so, Herr Hoffman. You're only permitting Mr. Johnson to import lard up to 40% of the quota. I happen to know you're letting the Danes import larant up to 65% of the quota. You call that fair treatment? Nein, nein. Hafmid lard. That is preposterous. No such dissemination exists. Mr. Johnson. Cho here. Hoffman. That magazine article. With pleasure. Take a look at this Herr Hoffman. But what is it? It's the text of your secret agreement with Denmark. That's what it is. A secret treaty with Denmark. Haven't you ever seen that treaty before, Herr Hoffman? Well, now that you mention it Herr Miller, I have. Yes. In fact I have a copyright here in my desk. So you knew right along then? This is the dirtiest piece of underhanded crookedness I've ever seen. Well John, I am deeply shocked. Herr Hoffman, you must understand that Mr. Johnson is thinking of the interests of his American investors. Yeah, I understand that boy. More then you admit your government has flagrantly disregarded its promises. Well, I don't know. But the point is this. What would you advise us to do now? I. I suppose you can submit a protest. I've already submitted a number of protests. Most of which weren't even answered. Well, that is the only advice I can give you. I see. Well, then. Thank you, herr Hoffman. Come, Mr. Johnson. I think we'd better run along. Yes, I suppose so, Herr Miller. Just a moment. Yes? You and I have always been friendly, Herr Miller. I hope this little incident will not disturb our personal relationship. After all, you understand that. Well, you understand I must make a living somehow. Come and see me again anytime. I can help you gentlemen. Good day. Here, Altman. Well, Mr. Miller, that's that, I guess. I'm afraid so. I'm sorry I couldn't help you, Mr. Johnson. Now, that's all right. It represents a loss of millions of dollars for my company. But after all, you aren't responsible. There's only one thing to do, Mr. Johnson. And if I were you, I'd do it. What's that? Get out of Germany and stay out. You might as well face it. You can't do business with Hitler, and that's what happened to Mr. Johnson. This case is typical of hundreds of others. Sounds unbelievable, doesn't it? But if you want proof, get the September 1940 issue of the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science. Turn to page 51 and read how, because of the Nazis treacherous tactics, large exports from America to Germany dropped from 93,000 tons in 1929 to a mere 55 tons by 1937. Remember, when you're dealing with the Nazis, you're dealing with men who will use any gangster method to get the best of you. Blackmail, for instance. Our favorite Nazi device. I remember the representative of a soft drink firm who came to my office. Mr. Miller, my firm is having trouble with the Nazi authorities. I'm afraid there are a lot of people in that boat, Mr. Hartmann. We were doing fine before Hitler came to power, but we've had nothing but trouble since. But what kind of trouble are you having? Well, the Nazis have forced German doctors to testify that the soft drink we turn out is injurious to health. And it isn't, of course? Certainly not. We've also had trouble with the police. They demand we tear down some of our buildings. They say they don't measure up to the building code. Well, Mr. Hartman, here's what probably has happened. German frost drink manufacturers no doubt have their representatives in the German Ministry of Economics. This is their way of driving you out and getting all the business for themselves. But it's unfair. Obviously. But you. You're not in America now, Mr. Hartman. You're in Nazi Germany. But can't everything be done? Well, if you like, I'll get In touch with the Nazi Party and see. And wait. It'll cost you quite a bit of money. I'm willing to pay quite a bit of money. It's either that or go completely broke. So I contacted the Nazi Party. I was told they would take care of Mr. Hartman's case. About a week later.

[Mr. Hartman]

Mr. Miller, there's a Carl Kerner here to see you.

[Douglas Miller]

Kenner? I don't know any Carl Kenner.

[Mr. Hartman]

He's a member of the Nazi Party. All decked out in a beautiful brown uniform and fit to kill. He acts like he's heaven's gift to the entire world.

[Douglas Miller]

I see. Is he a young fellow?

[Mr. Hartman]

Not over 30. Shall I tell him you're too busy to see him?

[Douglas Miller]

On the contrary, send him in. This boy. Very well.

[Mr. Hartman]

But get ready for a storm. And don't say I didn't warn you.

[Douglas Miller]

You may go in. Mr. Kenner. Congressman. Very glad to meet you. I am Karl Kerner, Propaganda leader of the province of Saxony. Heil Hitler. How do you do, Herr Kerner? Won't you be seated? No, thank you. I prefer to stand. Now, what can I do for you, herr Mila? Well, Mr. Hartman, an American friend of mine. Representative of the American soft drink manufacturers. How did you know? The Nazi Party has a way of discovering such things, Herrmira. Well, Mr. Hartman tells me that an firm is in trouble. That he is afraid the authorities might drive him out of business. And he wants you to help him. Yeah. Yes, that's just about it. That's precisely it. Here, River. Now I am the man to extricate your friend from his difficulties. That is, if he wants my help. I'm sure he would welcome your help. Good. Then here is what he must do. Appoint me a member of his board of directors. Oh, I see. And what salary would you expect here, Kenneth? $800 a month. $800 a month? Precisely. Well, I'll have to consult Mr. Hartman about that. Are you sure you can help him? Absolutely. I'm already helping 17 other companies who are having similar difficulties. I very much enjoy helping found firms. I see. It doesn't pay very much. But you like the work. What a sense of humor your Americans have. Yes, haven't we? No. Persecuting foreign firms and then making them pay off to relieve the pressure is an old trigger. The Nazi party leaders. In the case of Mr. Hartman, his firm paid $800 a month merely to gain the privilege of staying in business. This would have been a bad enough bargain, even if the Nazis had lived up to it. But Nazis never live up to their bargains. Hartman soon found this out a few months later.

[Mr. Hartman]

Hello? Just a minute, please. It's Mr. Hartman, Mr. Miller, who wants.

[Douglas Miller]

To speak to you. Oh, thank you. Well, hello, Mr. Hartman. I haven't heard from you for quite a while. I thought you were paying Carl Turner to take care of such thing. Oh. Oh, that's too bad. Well, I'll do what I can. All right. Goodbye. Beat that.

[Mr. Hartman]

What's wrong, Mr. Miller?

[Douglas Miller]

Now the Nazis have ruled that Mr. Hartman's soft drink is Jewish and will pollute any pure Aryan who drinks it.

[Mr. Hartman]

How fantastic. Mr. Hartman's firm isn't Jewish. And even if it were, how could that possibly make any difference?

[Douglas Miller]

I know, Ms. Ward. This Jewish line is merely a blind. Of course, the truth of the matter is Carl Kenner superior wasn't getting a big enough cut out of that $800, so he banged down on Hartman.

[Mr. Hartman]

What's to be done now?

[Douglas Miller]

I think I'll go and have a talk with Dr. Lay, the head of the so called German labor fund. Perhaps he can suggest some way out of this. So I called on Dr. Lay. This high Nazi official suggested that the American soft drink manufacturers pay the expenses of a Nazi delegation to go to the United States and investigate whether or not the soft drink was actually Jewish. In spite of the high costs involved, the American firm agreed and a delegation was sent. Finally, the delegation returned and made out a report that the soft drink was not Jewish and could be enjoyed by any pure Aryan without danger of contamination. By this time the American firm had paid out a good deal of money in the hope that the troubles were ended. But troubles never end when one is dealing with a Nazi. In a few months, the Nazi officials who had been causing all the trouble came out with a ruling that even though the soft drink was not Jewish, it was still a foreign drink and therefore could not be consumed by any true German. For the third time, Mr. Hartman came to me for assistance. Well, what are we to do now, Mr. Miller? Well, Mr. Hartman, you might as well face the facts. You're trying to do business with totalitarians and it just doesn't work out. However, you have one or three courses of action left. And what are they? Well, first you can go to this Nazi official and see how much it'll cost you to have him change his ruling. He's already blackmailed me out of thousands of dollars. What are the other alternatives? The second thing you can do is close your business and go back to the United States. And that's without advice. But you said there were three courses of action. What's the third? Well, if a Nazi firm was in the same fix as you are, they might consider having the official assassinated. Assassinated? Well, I. I wouldn't shed too many tears to see some of these people assassinated. But Americans just don't do those things. No, but that's what you're up against. Face facts, Mr. Hartman. You can't do business with Hitler. You have been listening to the second broadcast in a series entitled you Can't Do Business with Hitler. This series relates the actual experiences of Douglas Miller, who was for 15 years commercial attache to the American Embassy in Berlin. Listen for the third broadcast in this series, which is entitled no American Goods Wanted. This program is prepared and directed by Frank Telford and brought to you by the Office for Emergency Management in Washington. Step into the world of power, loyalty and luck. I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse with family. Cannolis and spins mean everything. Now you want to get mixed up in the family business. Introducing the [e-mail] test your luck in the shadowy world of the Godfather slot. Someday I will call upon you to do a service for me. Play the Godfather [e-mail]. welcome to the family. No purchase necessary. VGW Group void. We're prohibited by law. 21 plus terms and conditions apply.