BACKGROUND: The origins of the Hitler Jugend, (Hitler Youth), may be traced back to March 1922 with the formation of the Jugendbund der NSDAP, Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei, (Youth League of the National Socialist German Worker’s Party), under control of the SA, Sturmabteilung, (Storm/Assault Detachment). In April 1924 the Jugendbund der NSDAP was renamed Grossdeutsche Jugendbewegung (Greater German Youth Movement), and on July 4^TH 1926 the Grossdeutsche Jugendbewegung was officially renamed Hitler Jugend Bund der deutschen Arbeiterjugend, (Hitler Youth League of German Worker Youth). Originally the HJ was commanded by Kurt Gruber until Hitler appointed Baldur von Schirach as Reichsjugendführer, (National Youth Leader), in June 1933. Von Schirach remained in command of the HJ until August 1940 when he was replaced with Artur Axmann. When applying for service with the HJ, personnel were issued with a preliminary membership document which was exchanged for an "Ausweis", (Identification Card), when they were accepted for service. Originally, membership was voluntary until regulations of December, 1939, made membership compulsory for all males between ten and eighteen years old.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: A grey oilcloth "Führerschein" (Driver’s-license), whose closed cover measures 5 7/8" x 4 1/8". The bearer’s personal information is hand written to the cover. The first interior page repeats some of the personal data and indicates that he was authorized to drive third class vehicles has two official ink-stamps and a 1941 date is to the bottom of the page. The facing page has two pamphlets stapled to the top and the page underneath features a double ink-stamped photograph of the recipient, his signature and an ink-stamped, four Reichsmarks paper stamp. The stapled pamphlets are the same size as the booklet, one which is black printing on yellow paper deals with the hazards of "Kraftfahrer und Alkohol" (Motorist and alcohol) while the second is black and red printing on white paper and deals with Railroad signs, crossings, beacons and lights. Other than some light usage staining and a crease on the interior pamphlets where they have been lifted as to see the picture underneath the licence is in very good condition.

GRADE****                             PRICE $47.00