Party Day Badges & Pins

In 1933, the introduction of party badges coincided with the NSDAP’s declaration of May 1st as the official state holiday known as the “Day of National Work.” This designation aimed to commemorate laborers and the working classes. Seeking to garner support from the labour force, the Nazis designated May Day, traditionally celebrated by organized labour, as a paid holiday. On May 1, 1933, elaborate celebrations were held to honour German workers, emphasising the importance of acknowledging and appreciating their contributions. Adolf Hitler frequently extolled the virtues of labour, proclaiming in the Völkischer Beobachter that “I only acknowledge one nobility—that of labour.” The regime believed that securing the support of workers was crucial to preventing a recurrence of the 1918 disaster.

Hitler emphasised the need for Germany to honour its workers, portraying them as patriots who played a pivotal role in building the nation’s industrial strength and serving honourably in the war. The regime propagated the idea that the only means to avoid a repeat of past difficulties was to establish a strong bond between workers and the German government. Through extensive propaganda efforts, the regime encouraged all Germans to participate in the May Day celebrations, envisioning that this collective involvement would help dismantle class hostilities between workers and burghers.

State radio broadcasted songs praising labour and workers throughout May Day, accompanied by an air show and fireworks in Berlin. Hitler’s speeches underscored the perceived oppression of workers under economic liberalism and highlighted their crucial role in the nation’s development. Surprisingly, even publications like the Berliner Morgenpost, which had previously been aligned with the political left, praised the regime’s May Day celebrations, reflecting a moment of unity amid diverse political affiliations.