Subtle Deterrence Wins the Day

Icing and itching powders served as unconventional deterrents during WWII. Originally seen as amusing pranks, these powders were cleverly integrated into strategic military tactics. Churchill's advisers used itching powder in enemy soldiers' clothing and condoms, causing discomfort and inducing paranoia about lice or STDs. This diversion effectively removed soldiers from the battlefield, demonstrating the power of psychological warfare in achieving military objectives.