Joe Louis and Max Schmeling

Set amidst the tensions prior to the outbreak of World War II, the contests between heavyweights Joe Louis (U.S.) and Max Schmeling (Germany) were touted in both the German and American press as an ideological battle of nations.

Joe Louis and Max Schmeling in a ring during a match, with Joe Lewis throwing a punch as the other bends forward defensively.
Courtesy of the Library of Congress

Appears In

Joe Louis and Max Schmeling in a ring during a match, with Joe Lewis throwing a punch as the other bends forward defensively.