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1933 antique SOUTH MANCHURIA RAILWAY MANCHUKUO propaganda WORLD’S FAIR brochure
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Large multi-panel fold-out brochure, approximately 9 x 24 inches unfolded (exact dimensions may vary slightly due to folding and trimming), issued in 1933 by the SOUTH MANCHURIA RAILWAY COMPANY and titled “THE PROGRESS OF MANCHURIA.” This visually striking lithographed pamphlet was produced for American audiences in connection with the Century of Progress International Exposition, Chicago (1933–1934).
The brochure promotes Japanese-controlled Manchukuo as a modern, industrialized state, emphasizing rail infrastructure, urban development, agricultural production, mineral resources, population growth, and international trade. Content includes extensive economic statistics, period photographs of cities such as Harbin, Dairen, and Hsinking, and a detailed map of Manchukuo showing rail lines and regions. A prominent illustrated panel advertises the South Manchuria Railway, combining Western graphic design with East Asian imagery and Chinese characters.
Historically, this piece represents interwar Japanese imperial propaganda, produced shortly after the establishment of Manchukuo in 1932. It is particularly notable for its explicit outreach to American business and political audiences, citing U.S. exports, American machinery, automobiles, and investment figures. As such, it sits at the intersection of World’s Fair ephemera, railroad history, East Asian geopolitics, and pre-WWII propaganda.
Printed in the U.S.A. and intended as a pavilion handout or informational takeaway, this brochure is increasingly scarce, especially complete and intact. An important primary-source document illustrating how Japan presented its Manchurian project to the Western world on the eve of World War II.
Authentic period piece related to family, historyor local heritage - well-suited for historical collections, genealogical /genealogy research, or museum acquisition.Vintage or Antique.
CONDITION: See listing description and photos.
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LOC:
LOC2: PAPERBOX32-TMKTK-F260111BDS100G
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