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source [meaning Germany] if disaster [was] to be avoided.” 27
It was necessary for the
Reich, McDonald argued, to demonstrate “courage and generosity” by allowing their
“non-Aryans” to maintain a “tolerable” existence whole awaiting emigration. In
addition, Germany must provide the financial means (i.e., the release of sufficient
personal assets) to facilitate such a population transfer. Furthermore, the potential
countries of resettlement should not “fear” calling upon Germany for a greater degree of
cooperation in resolving the refugee problem by issuing a “general appeal” that stems
from “deep springs of pity” for the “sufferers” of persecution and the “indignation that
our common humanity should be so wronged.” 28
McDonald’s departure from the High Commission generated positive responses
from the international press. The Washington Post described his action as “one of the
most powerful indictments of the Nazi regime of terrorism yet given to the outside
world.” The San Francisco Chronicle noted that the persecution of Jews was “nobody’s
legal… [or] military business” but the “uncivilized” actions of Germany made it the
“moral business of civilization.” The Nation observed that McDonald “resigned with a
bang [with] reverberations…still sounding in every corner of the world with results that
have only begun to be felt” and represented the “most effective act” of his official tenure.
“His mission was an honorable failure.” The Manchester Guardian ominously warned,
however, that “for the Jews the Dark Ages have returned.” 29
27 “Letter of Resignation of James G. McDonald,” December 27, 1935, ix cited in Harriet Davis,
Pioneers in World Order: An American Appraisal of the League of Nations (NY: Columbia University
Press, 1944), 228.
28 “Britain is Aroused by McDonald Plea,” New York Times, December 31, 1935, 7.
29 Breitman et al, Refugees and Rescue, 103-104. Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle and
Manchester Guardian (December 31, 1935); The Nation (January 15, 1935).
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