Rare original program for the Helsinki 1940 Summer Olympics, which were ultimately canceled due to the outbreak of World War II. The German-language program, 40 pages, 6 x 9.25, printed in Finland by O.Y. F. Tilgmann, features an event schedule for the Olympic Games, which were slated to begin on July 20th and conclude on August 4th, images of the Helsingin Olympiastadion and other sporting venues, and information for events, the Olympic Village, catering, press, and more. In fine condition, with light wear to the spine. The start of the second Sino-Japanese War on July 7, 1937, raised the question among both the Japanese and the international community whether Tokyo still remained a logical Olympic host city. As the Japanese war effort continued to mount, the Games were forfeited to Helsinki, Finland, the runner-up in the original bidding process, but were soon suspended indefinitely following the outbreak of World War II.
