Devil

This Japanese propaganda leaflet targeted at Indonesians depicts a British soldier lounging comfortably, drinking whiskey, while Indonesians pray in the background. A large cross hangs prominently on the soldier’s chest, highlighting a stark contrast between his outward religious symbol and his morally questionable behavior. The message is blunt and accusatory: “Devil.”

Year

c. 1943 - 1945

Design

N/A

Object Detail

N/A

Type

Posters

Collection

N/A

Did you know?

In a 1942 declaration, Japan claimed:
Nippon has no intention of building an imperialist regime in East Asia. Instead, it envisions a union of neighboring nations, tied by racial and cultural bonds, and geographical closeness. This message, though idealistic, was part of Japan’s broader propaganda strategy. Many Indonesians initially welcomed Japan’s promises. By 1943, over 34,000 Indonesians had joined a volunteer army (PETA) to defend Java, believing it was a step toward real independence.

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