Max Schmeling - Righteous Ring Warrior?

More than half a century has passed since the legendary Joe Louis dispatched the German boxer, Max Schmeling, in just 124 seconds before 70,000 delirious fans in Yankee Stadium. In the minds of Americans, Schmeling is still best remembered as the Nazi who had upset Louis in 1936 and two years later got his come-uppance. As recently as October, 1991, the author of an article on boxing which appeared in the popular history magazine, American Heritage, described Schmeling as 'vehemently pro-Hitler'.

To continue reading this article you will need to purchase access to the online archive.

Buy Online Access  Buy Print & Archive Subscription

If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.

Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.