Smith, Sylvester Perry, Economic Analyst.
Date
1946-12-04
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Memorandum to Ambassador [G.S. Messersmith], giving observations on U.S.-Argentine relations. Does not see Argentine situation as a "problem"; according to "Blue Book", commitments made in Mexico City call upon Argentina to intensify its "efforts to eradicate remaining centers of Axis influence"; Argentina has intensified its efforts along this line comparatively as well as other American republics; U.S. seems to close eyes to strong Japanese centers in Brazil; "Blue Book" also points out danger of German economic resurgence in Argentina and states Germans have constructed in Argentina a duplicate of economic structure for war they had in Germany; statement utterly incorrect; German investments in Argentina are estimated at $12,000,000, not a sum representing "economic structure" for modern warfare; Argentina has been criticized for late entrance into war (Mar. 1945); Brazil did not declare war on Japan until July 6, 1945, Chile never declared war on Germany, nor did Ecuador, and Uruguay and Venezuela declared war only in Feb. 1945; fact that so-called Argentine situation has been over emphasized by press, the Department, and the public of the U.S. is recognized by all who have spent time in Argentina; there seem to be people who are determined to make a career of animosity against Argentina; seems no indication that U.S. views on Argentina are shared by France, Netherlands or Great Britain; more important things should engage attention of U.S. than whether Argentina disposses some of her native born citizens; the "be tough" policy toward Argentina has been tried and it has failed; price of world leadership includes modification of policies consistent with changing world conditions; solidarity of hemisphere is imperative, and U.S.-Argentine relations cannot continue on basis of present policy.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.