WWII Croatia NDH year 1942 Victims of Senj Masacre stamps ☀ MNH**

The Independent State of Croatia (NDH) issued several postage stamps during its existence from 1941 to 1945. The specific context of 1942, including events like the Senj massacre, might not be directly depicted on postage stamps, as such stamps typically avoided explicit references to atrocities or controversial events.

However, the NDH did issue stamps that reflected its nationalistic and wartime propaganda. In 1942, the stamps from the NDH often featured national symbols, historical figures, military themes, and propaganda motifs aligned with the Ustaše regime’s ideology.

Key Points on NDH Stamps in 1942

1. Designs and Themes: The stamps featured a variety of designs, including historical Croatian leaders, national monuments, military motifs, and patriotic symbols like the Croatian checkerboard (šahovnica).
2. Propaganda: Many of the stamps served as tools of propaganda, promoting the NDH regime, its leadership, and its alignment with Axis powers.
3. Commemorative Issues: Some stamps commemorated specific events, but these were more likely to highlight what the regime saw as positive milestones rather than atrocities or massacres.

Examples of 1942 NDH Stamps

• Historical Figures: Stamps featuring King Tomislav, a medieval Croatian king, emphasized national pride and historical continuity.
• Military and Patriotism: Stamps depicted Croatian soldiers, battles, and symbols of military strength and patriotic duty.

The Senj Massacre

The Senj massacre, where a significant number of Serb civilians were killed by the Ustaše in 1942, is a tragic and sensitive part of history. The NDH regime did not publicly acknowledge such atrocities through its postal issues. The regime’s stamps were more focused on presenting a unified, strong, and nationalistic image to both the local population and the international community.

Collecting NDH Stamps

For philatelists, NDH stamps are of historical interest due to their connection with World War II and the complex history of the region. When collecting, it’s essential to:

• Verify authenticity, as forgeries can be common.
• Understand the historical context and propaganda purposes of the stamps.
• Be aware that some stamps may be viewed differently depending on historical perspectives and sensitivities regarding the NDH period.

In conclusion, while NDH stamps from 1942 are a significant aspect of wartime philately, they do not explicitly commemorate the Senj massacre or similar events. They primarily served as tools of nationalistic propaganda, reflecting the regime’s desired image rather than the grim realities of its actions.