The Case:
History Detectives investigates a portrait made by an American POW in a World War Two German prison camp.
In 1943, as American air attacks against Germany increased, the Nazis moved the growing number of captured American airmen into prisoner of war camps, called Stalags. Over 4,000 airmen ended up in Stalag 17-b, just outside of Krems, Austria, in barracks made for 240 men. How did these men survive the deprivation and hardships of one of the most infamous prisoner of war camps of the Nazi regime?
65 years after her father became a prisoner of war, Gloria Mack of Tempe, Arizona has a portrait of him which appears to be drawn by another POW while they were both prisoners in Stalag 17b.
What happened to the artist? Did he survive the camp? History Detectives guest host Eduardo Pagán uncovers a stoic act of defiance and dignity behind the Stalag’s barbwire.
Related Content
Video:
Technique:
Technique:
Technique:
Related Links
Explore
-
Related Investigation
Superman Sketch
Is this a WWII sketch from the early days of this comic icon?
-
Also in Depression and WWII: 1929-1945
King Kong Camera
Was this old movie camera used to film the original version of King Kong?
-
Related Investigation
Galleon Shipwreck
Is this a piece of treasure from a Spanish galleon washed up on an Oregon beach?
-
Also in Depression and WWII: 1929-1945
Broadway Ballet Shoes
Did this dancer's great-great-grandfather teach Salvatore Capezio to make ballet shoes?
-
Also with Eduardo Pagán
Clara Barton Letter
What does this letter reveal about America's early efforts to honor its war dead?
-
Also in Depression and WWII: 1929-1945
Alcoholics Anonymous Letter
Is this letter proof of one man's contribution to this secretive society?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.