The Nazi influence in Argentina

Purpose: The purpose of this thesis was to determine the amount of influence exercised by Nazi Germany over the political and economic affairs of Argentina from 1933 until 1945. Because of the large numbers of German settlers in Argentina, the initial consideration was the German appeal to them. Additional considerations prior to the Second World War were Germany’s attempts to influence the Military through Nazi-oriented leaders and the civilian population through propaganda and espionage. The major consideration during the Second World War was the basis for neutrality and continued ties with Germany. Methods: A major portion of this thesis was based upon information derived from primary sources. Published diplomatic papers of the United States and official publications of the United States and Argentina were used, many of which are housed in the Latin American Collection Library at the University of Texas. Also utilized were the memoirs and accounts of United States’ and Argentine diplomats and officials, such as those of Cordell Hull, Sumner Wells, and Enrique Dickmann. In addition, much material was obtained from prominent observers of the Argentine scene during the period covered, including Sax Bradford, Ruth and Leonard Greenup, and Ray Josephs of the United States and Sergio Bagu and Silvano Santander of Argentina. Inally, reports in the New York Times by correspondents John W. White and Arnaldo Cortesi were important sources. Several sources obtainable only in Spanish were translated. Findings: Almost as soon as Hitler came to power in 1933, German interest in Argentina increased. German capital, German or German-linked management, German militarism, and German fascism exerted a major influence in Argentina throughout the Nazi regime. During the Second World War there occurred a flirtation by successive Argentine governments with Nazi ideology and superficial neutrality which was actually pro-German. The pro-German movement within Argentina included supporters in the Castillo administration and successive regimes; the nationalist press; and propaganda and subversive efforts of the German Embassy. The Nazi collaborators and the totalitarian individuals and groups, both military, who controlled the Argentine government, especially after the June, 1943 coup, pursued a common aim: the creation of a totalitarian state in the Western Hemisphere.