Messersmith, G.S. Memorandum covering conversation with Perón.
Date
1946-11-28
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
2 copies. Was received at President's home; told him was under no instructions from U.S. Government and that conversation would be informal and unofficial; discussed Southern or Latin American bloc as opposed to inter-American cooperation; Perón said he had stated on a number of occasions he was not interested in Southern or Latin American bloc but expected to cooperate fully in the inter-American system; told Perón frankly atmosphere in U.S. and other countries with respect to Argentina not good; enumerates reasons - Argentina's attitude during war and late entrance into war, suspicion that Perón government tends toward totalitarian, policy of Argentina in matter of export controls, discourtesy with which some head of mission had been treated by high-ranking officials of Argentine Government, continued concentration of powers in Central Bank, and slowness of Argentine Government in dealing with matter of enemy property and enemy aliens; Perón said he was trying very hard to bring some order into Government; he realized many of the Ministries were still inadequately organized and competent personnel not available; he said there was nothing totalitarian about his Government, that England's Labor government had gone much further than Argentina even contemplated in the direction of a planned economy; impeachment of Supreme Court was not to gain control over courts, but to provide progressive judges who would not impede social progress; he vigorously denied that he had made any attempt toccurb freedom of press; he expressed concern for growing Communism in Brazil and Chile.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.