The Telegram Crisis

In October 1942, Adolf Hitler transmitted a long and flattering birthday telegram to King Christian of Denmark, which was then under German occupation. The King replied with a simple "Spreche Meinen besten Dank aus. Chr. Rex" ("Giving my best thanks. King Christian") sending Hitler into a state of rage at what he considered to be a deliberate slight.

This incident seriously damaged German-Danish relations. Hitler immediately recalled his ambassador and expelled the Danish ambassador from Germany. Orders to crack down in Denmark were issued. The commander of the German forces in Denmark Erich Lüdke was replaced with the more heavy-handed General Hermann von Hanneken. German pressure also resulted in the dismissal of the Danish government led by Prime Minister Vilhelm Buhl and his replacement by Erik Scavenius, whom the Germans expected to be more cooperative.

Hitler was, of course, wrong.

But be careful with your words. Don't say less when more is expected. Don't say more when less is expected. And use the right words.