Voice of America First Broadcast to Nazi-Occupied Europe

On February 1, 1942, the Voice of America (VOA), the official external broadcast institution of the United States, aired its inaugural shortwave radio program directed towards Nazi-occupied Europe. This event marked a significant moment in the history of international broadcasting during World War II.

Context and Purpose

During the early 1940s, the world was engulfed in the turmoil of World War II, with a significant portion of Europe under Nazi control. Information and propaganda played a crucial role in influencing public opinion and morale. In this environment, the United States sought to counteract Nazi propaganda and provide news from the Allied perspective. Recognized as part of the psychological warfare tactics of the era, VOA’s mission was to broadcast truthful news and the U.S. government’s viewpoints to populations living under oppressive regimes.

Key Details of the First Broadcast

• Location: The broadcast originated from a studio in New York City.
• Content: The first program commenced with the declaration, “The news may be good or bad for us – We shall tell you the truth,” establishing VOA’s commitment to reliable and factual reporting. The inaugural broadcast featured news about the war and developments in the United States.
• Languages: Initially, the broadcasts were in German, but soon expanded to other languages to reach diverse audiences across Europe.

Significance and Impact

The launch of VOA was a strategic move to undermine Nazi propaganda and provide an alternative source of information in occupied regions. The service quickly gained credibility among its listeners for its honest reporting, becoming an essential source of news and information.

Aftermath and Legacy

Following its first broadcast, the Voice of America continued to expand its reach and programming. Over the decades, it played a crucial role during the Cold War, especially in broadcasting to the Soviet Union and Eastern Bloc countries. VOA’s adherence to factual reporting earned it a reputation for credibility and objectivity, aiding in its mission to promote freedom and democracy worldwide.

Today, despite changes in technology and media consumption, VOA continues to broadcast in multiple languages around the globe, maintaining its original purpose of delivering uncensored news and fostering understanding between nations.