UPDATE: Historian and educator Christopher Verga has just released a groundbreaking book, Nazis of Long Island: Sedition, Espionage & the Plot Against America, revealing chilling historical events that unfolded during World War II. This urgent publication dives into the shocking presence of Nazis on Long Island, detailing a plot that could have changed the course of American history.
Verga, who teaches at Suffolk Community College and contributes to Schneps Media, explores the dramatic story of four Nazis who landed on Amagansett’s shores in 1947. Armed with $175,000 in cash—equivalent to nearly $3 million today—these spies were tasked with sabotaging U.S. infrastructure to incite chaos and destabilize the government. However, their mission was thwarted, leading to their capture and conviction.
This compelling narrative not only recounts the infiltration of Nazi ideology through the infamous German American Bund but also exposes how local sympathizers propagated antisemitic propaganda. Verga documents the establishment of Camp Siegfried in Yaphank, where thousands of children were indoctrinated with militaristic ideals mirroring those in Nazi Germany.
The book details disturbing incidents, such as children being taught to chant, “When Jewish blood drips from the knife, then will the German people prosper.” Verga emphasizes the toxic atmosphere of hate fostered by local leaders, including the presence of the Ku Klux Klan, who thrived in this environment of growing antisemitism.
The historical significance of this work cannot be overstated. In 1935, a staggering 10,000 anti-Nazi demonstrators marched through New York City, demanding that the U.S. withdraw from the Berlin Olympics. Although the U.S. did not pull out, the public outrage led to investigations into the Bund’s financial dealings, ultimately dismantling the organization.
Verga also highlights the dismantling of the Duquesne Spy Ring in 1941, which played a crucial role in expelling these spies from American soil. The book reveals that Everett Roeder, a key spy, was sentenced to 16 years in prison for providing critical military intelligence to the Nazis.
As antisemitism resurges in contemporary society, the lessons learned from Verga’s meticulous research are more relevant than ever. The foreword by award-winning journalist Karl Grossman cautions readers: “If we are to avoid the horrendous, deadly events of less than a century ago, we need to learn fully about what happened then.”
The book features rare photographs, letters, and firsthand accounts, making it a crucial read for understanding the historical context of current events. Verga’s work underscores the importance of vigilance against hatred and the necessity of remembering the past to protect our future.
For those interested in a deep dive into this dark chapter of American history, Nazis of Long Island is a must-read that serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by hatred and bigotry.
Get your copy today and explore the hidden truths of Long Island’s past, as Verga provides a compelling narrative that is both educational and urgent.
