1949 Anti-Communist Protest Turns Riot in Munich

In Munich, Germany, a protest erupted following religious services, with leaders urging the crowd to storm a building believed to be a Soviet mission. The protest was against Russian persecution of religious groups behind the Iron Curtain. German police were unable to stop the crowd, leading to US troops being called in for reinforcement. A battalion of American soldiers and tanks arrived to control the situation, but the crowd, fueled by anti-communist sentiment and speeches, was resistant to dispersing.

What was the primary reason for the protest in Munich, Germany?

• Political corruption

• Religious persecution by Russia

• Environmental concerns

• Economic instability

Who initially tried to stop the protesters in Munich?

• Local government officials

• German civilian police

• International peacekeepers

• US occupation troops

What action did the US occupation troops take when they couldn't control the crowd?

• They called for reinforcements

• They negotiated with the leaders

• They retreated from the scene

• They used tear gas

What additional support did the American soldiers receive to manage the protest?

• Light tanks

• Air strikes

• Naval support

• Helicopters

What was the mood of the crowd despite the military intervention?

• Calm and cooperative

• Fearful and retreating

• Indifferent and passive

• Determined and anti-communist