Chile, 1938-May 1941

PSF Chile 1938-41 file Chile 1075 DEPARTMENT OF STATE arem DIVISION OF PROTOCOL MEMORANDUM FOR MR. MCINTYRE August 4, 1938. The following are excerpts taken from a personal and confidential letter dated June 28, 1938, which I received from Norman Armour, American Ambassador to Chile: **** Confidentially, I am a little worried at the thought of his postponing his visit until after the elections in Novem- ber at home. The presidential elections here are not until late October and although the inauguration of the new President will not be until December 23rd, Alessandri will then be, so to speak, "keeping the seat warm" for his successor. Also it seems possible that the excitement, to put it mildly, over the elec- tions, may not have calmed down entirely by that time. In fact, there are some people who think that if Ross is elected, the Left may not accept the verdict without attempting to show some fight. "However, all the above is negative. On the positive side the President's visit would have a splendid effect here and I am sure that rather than not have him visit Chile, they would prefer to have him come at any time the President finds it possible to do SO. On second thought, if he waited until after the elections at home, he would not reach here presumably until late in November, by which time all excitement following elections here should have quieted down. Also this would be sufficiently far in advance of the inaugu- ration of the new President not to have any conflict in that direction. All things con- sidered, therefore, if the President could time his visit to come, let us say, between Novem- ber 25th and December 5th, this would seem to fit - 2 - to fit in perfectly. He could then continue on up to Lima for the opening of the Conference. "Should the President prefer to go to Lima first for the opening of the Conference and then come on to Chile, he could still do this provided he did not stay too long at Lima. As the opening is on December 9th, if he left there on December 11th, that would bring him here about the 14th-15th. This would be only eight days before the inaugura- tion of the new President here, which is fairly close but would still probably be possible, although I think the earlier date, prior to the opening of the Lima Conference, would perhaps be preferable." I thought you would be interested in having for your files these confidential observations in regard to a trip to the west coast of South America by the Presi- dent in the Fall. G.J.J. G.T.S. Chile folder 1938 THE WHITE HOUSE 11/23 [38] WASHINGTON personal Summerlin: "The American Amb. in Santiago, Chile, sent the following message: "Nov. 22. For the Under Sec. Would it be possible to secure from the President or the Sec. a message to be read at the opening of the Chile-North American Institute of Cultural Relations on Thursday, Thanksgiving Day? The inauguration will take place under auspices of Comision Chilena de Cooperacion Intelectual at 7 PM, Nov. 24. The British Foreign Minister sent a similar message which was read at the opening of the British Institute last May and I know some such official recognition from Washington will be appreciated here. Armour. "Following is proposed message: "Your telegram 138, Nov. 22, Noon. You are authorized to read the following message: The development of the cultural relations between the peoples of the world is of transcendental importance in the present era. The attainment of a full appreciation of the problems, the customs, the ideals, the aspirations of their neighbors is essential if nations are to break down the barriers of misunderstanding. I know that the new Chilean-North American Institute of Cultural Relations is fully alive to this great issue and I am confi- dent that it will make a most substantial contribution to the friendly and sympathetic understanding between the peoples of Chile and the United States. (Signed) Franklin D. Roosevelt.' OK AP tm embajada DE CHILE WASHINGTON 8 June 1939- N°904/35.- Excellency: I have the honor to transmit to Your Excel- lency, with the request that it be forwarded to its high destination, D letter from His Excellency Pedro Aguirre Cerds, President of the Republic of Chile, ad- dressed to His Excellency Franklin D. Roosevelt, Pres- ident of the United States of America.- For Your Excellency's information and con- venience I on, at the same time, enclosing a copy of the letter in its original Spanish, as well 0.5 a i translation made at this Embassy.- 2- Acc Accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.- HIS EXCELLENCY CORDELL HULL, THE SECRETARY OF STATE? WASHINGTON, D.C. ACALABME EMBAJADA DE CHILE WASHINGTON Santingo, 2 de Junio de 1939- M.L estimado Señor President: El may digno representante de Vuestra Ex- celencia onte mi Gobierno, Excelentisimo Embajador Señor Norman Armour, puso en mis manos el atento mensaje que Vuestra Excelencia se sirvió dirigirme con ocasión de La proximidad del décimo aniversario del establecimiento del servicio aéreo directo entre Chile y los Estados Unidos.- Como bien lo dice Vuestra Excelencia, (r.- cias a la rapidez y seguridad de este magnífico servicio, nuestros phises han llegado a ser vecinos cercenos, y CO- mo tales pueden ayudarse acucioss y eficezmente, uno a otro, en todos Los campos de actividad público y privade. Por ello participo plenamente de la complacencia que & todos produce 10 posibilidad alconzada de una não estre- cha coopersción entre los ciudadanos de Chile y los Esta- dos Unidos, posibilidad que se ve demostrado por la pron- titud con que tuve a honrs recibir Los buenos deseos y soludos personales de Vuestra Excelencia, como, naimismo, por La rapidez igual con que se impondrá de esta respues- to en que le manifiesto mis vivos agradecimientos y sin- cera congratulación. lencia, (Fdo.) P. Aguirre Cerdo. AL EXCELENTISIMO SENOR FRANKLIN D. Roosevelt, PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA.- ALABM3 embajada DE CHILE "TRANSLATION" WASHINGTON ####### Sentiago, 2 June 1939- My dear Mr. President: The very worthy representative of Your Excellency before my Government, His Excellency Ambas- sador Norman Armour, put into my hands the kind mes- sage which Your Excellency was good enough to address to me on the occasion of the forthcoming Tenth Anni- versary of the establishment of direct air service between Chile and the United States.- As Your Excellency points out, thanks to the rapidity and safety of this magnificent service, our countries have become close neighbors, and L5 such may diligently and efficaciously help each other, in all fields of public and private activity. Therefore, I join fully in the plessure felt by all at the pos- sibility attained of a closer cooperation Letween the citizens of Chile end the United States, a possibility which may be seen demonstrated by the speed with which I had the honor to receive the good wishes and personal regards of Your Excellency, as well 55 by the equal dispatch with which Your Excellency will receive this response in which I convey my wormest thanks and sincere congretulations.- With my very kindest regards to Your Excellency, I as, Very sincerely yours, (Signed) P. Aguirre Cerda TO HIS EXCELLENCY FRANKLIN D. roosevelt, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.- ----- 2AW GALASME OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS TO HE SECRETARY OF STATE Chile 1939 WASHINGTON, D.C. DEPARTMENT OF STATE WASHINGTON In reply refer to PR 810. 79611/41 June 22. 1939 My dear Miss LeHand: With reference to the communication recently addressed by the President to His Excellency Pedro Aguirre Cerda, President of the Republic of Chile, on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the establishment of a direct air service between the United States and Chile, there is enclosed herewith President Aguirre Cerda's reply, together with a copy of the transmitting note and its enclosures from the Ambassador of Chile at Washington. No further action appears to be necessary. Sincerely yours, Chief of Protocol. Miss Marguerite A. LeHand, Private Secretary to the President, The White House. 60KG Santiago, 2 de junio de 1939. Mi estimado Señor Presidente: El muy digno representante de Vuestra Excelencia ante mi Gobierno, Excelentísimo Embajador señor Norman Armour, puso en mis manos el atento mensaje que Vuestra Excelencia se sirvió dirigirme con ocasión de la pro- ximidad del décimo aniversario del establecimiento del servi- cio aéreo directo entre Chile y los Estados Unidos. Como bien lo dice Vuestra Ex- celencia, gracias a la rapidez y seguridad de este magnífico servicio, nuestros países han llegado a ser vecinos cercanos, y como tales pueden ayudarse acuciosa y eficazmente, uno a otro, en todos los campos de actividad pública y privada. Por ello participo plenamente de la complacencia que a todos pro- duce la posibilidad alcanzada de una más estrecha cooperación entre los ciudadanos de Chile y los Estados Unidos, posibilidad que se ve demostrada por la prontitud con que tuve a honra re- cibir los buenos deseos y saludos personales de Vuestra Excelen- cia, como, asimismo, por la rapidez igual con que se impondrá de esta respuesta en que le manifiesto mis vivos agradecimien- tos y sincera congratulación. Saluda muy atentamente a Vues- tra Excelencia, AL EXCELENTISIMO SEÑOR FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT, Presidente de los Estados Unidos de América. Al Excelentísimo Señor FRANKLIN D.ROOSEVELT, Presidente de los Estados Unidos de América, Washington. tile Chile- 1939 3 DEPARTMENT OF STATE WASHINGTON July 5, 1939 My dear Mr. President: I return herewith the original of the letter of the President of Chile of May 23, 1939 replying to your communication to him of May 15, 1939 on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the establishment of air communications between the United States and Chile. A translation of President Aguirre's letter is also enclosed. Faithfully yours, halls Enclosures: 1. President Aguirre's letter returned. 2. Translation of President Aguirre's letter. The President, The White House. Department of State BUREAU RA DIVISION ENCLOSURE TO Letter drafted ADDRESSED TO the President. - 1981 State special for translation JUL DE ENCIA DRE PLPUBLA CHILE RECEIVED THE WHITE 9 HOUSE 15 AM Santiago, Mayo 23 de 1939, Excelentísimo Señor DIVISION Franklin D. Roosevelt, Presidente de los Estados Unidos de Norte América.- THE AMERICAN REPUBLICS DEPARTMENT OF STATE Estimado Presidente y amigo: Puedo asegurarle que todo el pueblo de Chile participa de mis sentimientos que no pueden ser sino de gratitud por las repetidas manifestaciones de vuestra simpatía por mi país. La valiosa ayuda material y moral que tan generosamen- te nos prestásteis con ocasión del terremoto del 24 de Ene- ro último, primero; la honrosa distinción que significa el ha- ber invitado como huésped de honor del pueblo norteamericano a nuestro Ministro de Hacienda, después, y, ahora, la carta tan gentil que me enviásteis con fecha 15 del presente y que se refiere al décimo aniversario de la unión aérea de ambos países, son gestos que comprometen hondamente el reconocimien- to del Gobierno y pueblo chilenos. Para todo chileno es muy grato establecer que paralela- mente con el acercamiento material que han hecho posible las intrépidas alas de la Aviación Comercial norteamericana, se ha operado una más estrecha vinculación espiritual entre vuestro país y las demás Naciones de América. Seguro estoy, también, de que la cooperación de nuestros conciudadanos desarrollada en el espíritu de cordial confian- za y comprensión que ha distinguido vuestra política, permi- tirá la obtención de grandes y mútuos beneficios en las rela- ciones espirituales y comerciales de todos los países de Amé- rica. Cordialmente lo saluda su affmo., (TRANSLATION) Santiago, May 23, 1939. His Excellency Franklin D. Roosevelt, President of the United States of America. Esteemed President and friend: I assure you that all the Chilean people share my sentiments which cannot be other than those of gratitude for the repeated manifestations of your sympathy for my country. First, the valuable material and moral assistance which you 80 generously accorded us on the occasion of the earthquake of January 24 last, then the high distinc- tion shown by inviting our Minister of Finance to be the guest of honor of the American people, and now your kind letter of the 15th instant referring to the tenth anni- versary of the union of the two countries by air, are actions that merit the profound gratitude of the Chilean Government and people. It 1s very gratifying to every Chilean to verify that parallel with the physical proximity which the intrepid wings of American aviation have made possible, there has been forged a closer spiritual tie between your country and the other nations of America. I am -2- I am also sure that the cooperation of our citizens developed in the spirit of cordial confidence and under- standing which has distinguished your policy, will permit the attainment of great and mutual benefits in the spiritual and commercial relations of all the countries of America. I am cordially P. AGUIRRE CERDA chile. Re-Letter from Amb Bowers --Nov 2-1939-Santiago, Chili regarding Chilean politics See:Sumner Welles folder-Drawer 4-1939 THIS OVERSIZE ITEM HAS BEEN MICROFILMED IN SECTIONS. LA NACION, October 8, 1939. EL CONGRESO PANAMERICANO DE LA VIVIENDA POPULAR CELEBRO AYER SU SESIÓN DE CLAUSURA Después de aprobarse las conclusiones propuestas por las comisiones internas se resolvió que el próximo congreso se realice en la ciudad de Washington CREACIÓN DE UN ORGANISMO EN BUENOS AIRES Deputs de una semans de isbor, the presencia lingando deade las más con trabajor de iss comisio- remotas regiones, this Internas, varias plenarias peligros del aire. del mar la de arer de claustire, et primer de is tierra F acreedores Congreso Panamericado de la Vivien- suestro 3 considers. tida da Popular termind au cometido Co- Befores Leady ans Disa me saldo quida un número aprecia- HP el faits de nuestro congreso Que bie de resoluciones y votor sendientes no - más que un primer jalse . la solución del magno problema que planteado en el arranque del caintas estudid, que serán senidos en currita que podamos est us dia Jublicao para por los gobitrace representados. All América celebrar el ditimo congress, inlamo tiempo is assmbles ha servido porque habrá deseparecido en au - para hacer más fuertes 7 efectivos los el problema de a vivisada popular". vineulos que unen a las naciones del continente, que continian Interneadas Del embajador de Méjico en ins grandes cuestiones que les son Despuss his uso de la jalabre el aftices embajador de Méjico, ingeniero Félix Trabajo de las comisiones F. Palaricini Aludió a la importan- cia de DAS reuniones internacionales, Por la mañana trabajaron ayer al- que han aldo pasos progresiatas en el ERRM comisiones DATA ultimar los de- camiso de la buens intellgencia anse- falles de ins conclusiones, que debtan ricana, , dijo que la de in Vivienda presentarse a votación en la asambles Popular ha enticado tramas de Interés plenaria de is tarde. la comisión de aspecto social apro- social, palpitantes an todos los pai- bé estas conclusiones que desputs fue- sex, que recondorg la urgente nace- sidad de trabajar por et de FOR aceptadas en is asambles de clas- sure: los pres menos favorecidos, Agrego que al concurrir a esta assmbles, los "El mangreso considera que et pro- Name de vivienda dabs resolverse goblernos han demostrado, una ves Buscando de preferencia la construe- más, su propósito de matilener la NO- clós de viviendas individuales, euys Inderidad de earle continente en to que propledad punda ear adquirida por los conterne a los altos Ideales humant- trabajadores (emplinados (tima) y tarlos. Destand que los delegados to- constituida es de familia le pa- termacionales exposieron la situación trimosio de familia). In los as que resome conditions * urbanisticas de sus respectivos países y los repre- no to permitan. podrá optares por la sentables du Instituciones adberentes virienda colectiva, pero 18 tales CARDS trajeron un gran scopto de investige- deberá contemplares is mayor indepen- clón cientifica, de cultura especialism- dencia para cada familia, to us disseo vehements del congreso que los dia- da I de experiencia Menica, Luego tintos paísés an et representados non- express: templen is postbilidad urgents de fijar "AI terminares las labores del 000- un salario minimo familiar para los greso, y cuando ya has aprobado obrerse y empleados, on fin de - del miamo, pode- postrios en repecidad económica de mos hacer la facts observación de que adquirir au virienta en propiedad", no hay estre allas uns. concatenación La sesión de clausura de plan general, una armonia Identify- ca. El congreto no se ha pronunciado A las 18 40 el presidente del con- por is vivienda individual at por la ETWO, Dr. Juan F. Cafferata, declard colective, ni siguiera definido qué - USA vivienda popular On un singu- sbierta is ansión de clausurs, con is lar buen sentide be aprobado resolu- presencia de todas las delegaciones tiones de us tal que todos extranjeres y nacionales, diplomáti- los puntos de vista colaciden en el vir- COS, legisladores , un numeroso DÓ- tice estialado, cualquiers - el ingo- blico, la que tomen gobernantes e legisla- Despute de un cambio de Ideas acer- dores: pero en todos bay una firms de- Ca de la votación de los desparhos, se de extinguir el adrdido tugurio urbano. de stollr la miserable cabe- procedió a dar lectura de Ins mismos. As ristica, alendo aprobados los de todas las co- Sugnations, advertencias, Indicado- misiones Internal dell' congramo, ain nes generales, aplicables aqui 0 alla, mayores debates, por inquiredas o derechas, por Indi- la arenbies resolvid que el próxi- vidualistas a por socialistas. Las re- mo congreso - reuns en Washington commendaciones son titles a palses ri- - 1941, 7 sobre mis eleoción prenun- com pobres; pueden proportionares . recursos y de claron algunas palabras el delegado cada seción sin subordinarias & is EXT peruano Dr. Velarde #( de los Ex- tenside territorial, - poblisción a eu tados Unidos, Mr. Claude Bowers. pupease éconómica". Twold e acordó que MAR publica- dos los trabajos aprobados, Del delegado paraguayo In seguida - prenunciaron los dis- También hiso uso du la palabra el cursos de clausura, que fueron muy delegado del Paraguay, D. Edmundo aplentidos por la concurrenta. Tombeur Ferraro, quien empead n- Discurso del presidente del congreso condando la historia de las nacional americanas, que credition juntas des- El presidente del congraso, Dr. Caf- de et descubrimiento, Expreso que M- ferale, empeso manifestando que is to continente ha compresido OUP la YOR de In assimbles habla encontrado pas ain is justicia es utopia, , to de- non halagador y despertado interés como el continente de is liber- en la opinión y experazione en la hu- tad, mildad de las viviendas modestas que "Las conclusions . - arribé el Flatumbran el adventadanto de majo- congraso -express más adelante- que - dias. Befialó que las ponentias boy clausura sus deliberaciones. son ins conclusiones nancionadas que- de una tax admirable y de une Ban respaidadas por la autoridad del amplitud tan cierta time que pongreso, que ha ado is TOB de la permiten adoptares tos procedimientos más prácticos an de - expertencia y de la dencia, principios más Ellas podrán dado al mindo us ejempia contrator per at ACIAN a. quixpes secip- -40 Mientras hajo otros de- tinamente - llamer 19- - Ine humbres destributes, nosotros mastions all propésite Inquebrantable construime Misntras lieves al datar de all tilles) de dar . cada far late the Regares, mosotros Ins De- millia que labore - grandess la pros- Number la experation Missires las som- peridad del egelo americano, cases, pro- bas derrites tra- pia, higiénica bejances por multiplicarias para que "Amfrica to ha descendido, como no bundan signature & todos los bogares descenders Jamás, porque seria contra- Bel continents. no ru decenda, . apartares de East directives F sugnationes for- verdad en mérito . consideraciones del maria us código, . ears frente earl- momento de order práctico biremos el derecho del hombre is bla. He all preciasmente, entores, al divienda, Porque así namo tieme dare- genio de Amêrica. No habrá par in- the is vida, la familia time derecho ternacional all no - MIEURA la pas - tual del problema en Amárica, Aspec- hogar, dereibo que emerge de eu cial. No puede concebires data, at no to Juridice , Legislativo. propia naturaless, 7 que es medición - reconsé y assgurs & cada eer hu- para que subsista , alcance - Una recomendación DATO eu expecto bajo el mismo sol ilens integridad Derecto correlativo de la felicidad y de vida. El dame- La assimbles de claustra del con- Ini deber que el Matado Urte que am- cho de rada cual, en el concierto del isrario ma sua recursos, non su - respete al derecho de todos tal el - great aprobó también una recomenda- caladión, on todos los medica . su pario vital - los bornhree de Amt- ción, de la que es autor el Dr. Radi Jeanse, No hard en tal CARD más que rica buscan F que logranto porços no c. Migone, jede de is offeins de ottribute . au propto Dispertar, a su na falten at RETA moral que Uniones internacionales del Ministe equridad, is par social, so - to# orients". no de Relaciones Exteriores y Culla ya que al regital hu- name per - valor expiritual y all on- Otros oradores a in cual M adhirieron los delegados unted productiva as la Figuess pris- gubernamentales de todos los palies spall de une nacida". El delegado de is provincia de Ban- representados. Más adelacte express ta. 7s. Dr. Juan Castello, improvas Dispone la constitución de comisio- "Potence estar ampliamenta estiate breves palatiras, para aftermar que el nes nacionales de vivienda popular, has del saldo de este primer Custre- realizado , is obra decunda formadas por expertos en legisleción, - Pasamericato de is Vivienda Pigo- que traduces las concinatories apro- economia. higle- are No - construirás de Inmediate badas compromites in gratifud na- ne, Ingenieria, industries, educación allares de cassa porque 190 - una cional, porque de for en adelante , servicio social. Bajo is dirección de depla, ml - serán 24- el problems de is vivienda popular estas comisimes funcionarán numaro- abise que - Betre el viento name plan- Ade- randecinMento, ya que el capital hu- nano por su valor espiritual y su ca- Otros oradores & la cual se adhirieron los delegados incidad productiva es la riqueza prin- gubernamentales de todos los países ipal de una nación". El delegado de la provincia de San- representados. Más adelante expresó: ta Fe, Dr. Juan Casiello, improvisó Dispone la constitución de comisio- "Podemos estar ampliamente satisfe- breves palabras, para afirmar que el nes nacionales de vivienda popular, hos del saldo de este primer Congre- esfuerzo realizado y la obra fecunda formadas por expertos en legislación, IO Panamericano de la Vivienda Popu- que traducen las conclusiones apro- finanzas, economia. urbanismo, higle- ar. No se construirán de inmediato badas comprometen la gratitud na- ne, ingeniería, industrias, educación nillares de casas porque eso es una itopia, ni sus conclusiones serán pa- cional, porque de "hoy en adelante y servicio social. Bajo la dirección de abras que se lleve el viento como pien- el problema de la vivienda popular estas comisiones funcionarán numero- ian los pesimistas dispuestos a empe- ha dejado de ser la preocupación de 805 servicios de investigaciones. Ade- queñecer los mejores esfuerzos. determinados sectores, para conver- más, se establece la creación del Ins- "La realidad es otra. Ella será la pa- tirse en una preocupación general, tituto Interamericano de la Vivienda abra de orden que alcance hasta los que presionará en todos los instantes Popular, con sede en Buenos Aires. áltimos rincones de América, A los go- biernos, a los capitalistas, a la socie- la conciencia pública hasta que lle- Had, para decirles que hay un proble- guen a concretarse las ansladas 80- Agasajos a los delegados na social de impostergable solución. luciones que reclaman los países. La delegada uruguaya, Da. Sofía El comité ejecutivo del Congreso de Que no es posible que en esta etapa de la humanidad existan, frente a los A. de Demichelli, pronunció un bre- la Vivienda Popular ha invitado a las rascacielos y a los palacios, familias ve discurso, destacando el significa- esposas de los delegados americanos que habitan en madrigueras, como las do de la reunión, que acerca -dijo- & realizar una excursión a Tigre y especies inferiores de la naturaleza. a los hombres de todos los medios lugares del delta, que se efectuará hoy Que es urgente desterrar el tugurio y in vivienda insalubre. Que les va en continentales para discutir grandes por la mañana. ello su propia conservación, porque cuestiones de interés público en for- Los delegados americanos y adhe- alli se incuban la tuberculosia, la pros- ma clara y cordial. Saludó & las de- rentes han sido invitados a visitar la titución, la revolución, todas las mise- legaciones, destacó la obra de la pren- Exposición de Planos Reguladores que rias morales y todas las miserias fi- sa argentina y tuvo un recuerdo de se realiza en los salones de Yacimien- sicas". simpatia para la mujer de nuestro tos Petroliferos Fiscales, avenida Ro- El Dr. Cafferata terminó diciendo: país. que Sáenz Peña 777. "Llevad a vuestros gobiernos y a El presidente, Dr. Cafferata, decla- vuestros pueblos, con la palabra de ró clausuradas las deliberaciones y La exposición este congreso, la impresión intima de felicitó a los congresistas por la labor nuestro reconocimiento por haber acu- desarrollada. La Exposición de la Vivienda Po- dido a nuestro llamamiento. Lievadle pular, instalada en el pabellón Bro- el sentimiento de solidaridad en esta Las conclusiones vincia de Buenos Aires, de la Sociedad obra, en la que todos coincidimos, de Rural Argentina, permanece abierta todos los campos políticos y filosóficos De todas las comisiones internas en todos los días hábiles de 14.30 a 24.30 y de todas las eaferas sociales. que estuvo dividido el congreso se "En la Exposición de Palermo, den- y de 9 a 12 y 14 a 24.30 los domin- aprobaron numerosas resoluciones, de tro de un marco de sol, de aire y de gos , feriados, siendo el acceso a la verdura, compañeros necesarios de la las cuales ya hemos informado al dar misma gratuito, vivienda sana, admiramos la obra que cuenta de la labor de las comisiones. realizáis, juntamente con nosotros, que De la comisión de urbanismo se En la Corporación de Arquitectos muestra el movimiento que en Améri- aprobaron estas conclusiones de ca- ca crece y se intensifica en favor de rácter general: Católicos la vivienda popular. Por ello merecéis "Todo plan de vivienda popular de- nuestro aplauso. Los Cursos de Cultura Católica y la be ser encarado -previo a todo estudio "La República Argentina y su go- de cualquier naturaleza- como un pro- Corporación de Arquitectos Católicos bierno se sienten orgullosos de este blema urbanistico. Por tanto, todo pro- han organizado un acto, que tendrá certamen, que habéis realzado con vues- yecto de vivienda popular debe consi- efecto el próximo martes a las 18,30 derarse parte integrante del plan re- en la sede de la institución, Recon- gulador y regional. quista 572, con motivo de la visita "Los temas fundamentales de este plan de vivienda popular deben res- de los profesores de la Universidad ponder & las siguientes normas urba- Católica de Chile arquitectos Celesti- nisticas: zonización, parcelamiento fun- no Sañudo y Ramór Venegas, inte- cional, espacios verdes, vialidad, sa- grantes de la delegación chilena al neamiento y ambiente, considerándose primer Congreso Panamericano de la indispensable la creación de una legis- Vivienda Popular. Los visitantes, que lación de emergencia que impida la expansión de la cludad. hasta tanto vendrán acompañados por un grupo se disponga del plan regulador y re- de estudiantes de la misma universi- gional o, en su defecto, y por lo me- dad, serán saludados por las autori- nos. el plan de zonización general. dades de los Cursos y de la Corpo- "La conveniencia de crear el Insti- ración. A continuación los arquitec- tuto de la Vivienda Popular en cada tos Sañudo y Venegas disertarán so- país de América, con la finalidad de propender a la aplicación de los prin- bre algunos aspectos del problema de cipios básicos consagrados por los con- la vivienda popular. gresos y a objeto de satablecer como El miércoles a las 18.30 serán re- una necesidad imprescindible un ma- elbidos en la misma institución los yor intercambio de los estudios reali- delegados brasileños. ingeniero Paulo zados por los distintos países; crear Accioli de Sá, presidente de la. Acción un comité interamericano de la vivien- da popular" Católica Universitaria, e ingeniero ar- De la comisión de Aspecto Arqui- quitecto Rubens Almada Horto Porto, tectónico y Constructivo se aprobaron director del Secretariado Económico los temas sobre vivienda mínima, co- Social del Brasil. lectiva y rural. De la comision de Aspecto Econó- mico se aprobaron las resoluciones so- bre intervención reguladora del Esta- do, aumento de capacidad adquisiti- va popular. previsión social por un sistema de seguros nacionales, aumen- to del poder económico de las clases populares, vivienda tipo granja popu- lar. leyes orgánicas y bancos hipo- tecarios. De la comisión de Aspecto Financie- ro se aprobaron los temas sobre cons- trucción de casas baratas por medio de la acción combinada del Estado con el capital privado. También se aprobaron las conclu- stones de las Comisiones Estado Ac- ADDRESS OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS TO THE SECRETARY or STATE chile WASHINGTON, a. DEPARTMENT OF STATE WASHINGTON In reply refer to November 3. 1939 IC 550.2 M 1/109 on My dear General Watson: I enclose as of possible interest to the President the report of the Honorable Claude G. Bowers, Ambassador to Chile, in his capacity as Chairman of the United States delegation to the First Pan American Housing Con- ference held at Buenos Aires from October 2 to 7, 1939. Through a misapprehension Mr. Bowers addressed his report to the President but an appropriate acknowledg- ment thereof has been made in the Department. Sincerely yours, Carrelluel Enclosure: Report. Brigadier General Edwin M. Watson, Secretary to the President, The White House. Department of State BUREAU IC DIVISION ENCLOSURE TO Letter drafted 10-28-39 ADDRESSED TO Brigadier General Edwin M. Watson ill - - - - - EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Santiago, Chile, October 17, 1939 Dear Mr. President: I have the honor to submit, herewith, resolutions adopted at the First Pan-American Housing Conference at Buenos Aires October 2-7, with some observations on the proceedings and the spirit of the meetings. The delegates of the United States were cordially received and the practical experience and character of the delegates, Raymond Cahill, C. B. Baldwin and S. L. Tesone, contributed greatly to the prestige of the dele- gation. Both in going and returning, while passing through Argentina, functionaries and civil governors met me at every station and stop to pay their respects and to offer their services. I was designated to reply in be- half of all the dele gates in the Convention to the ad- dresses of welcomeby Señor Cantilo, the Foreign Minister, and by Dr. Cafferata, President of the Conference, who is a member of the Argentine House of Deputies, repre- senting the Conservative Party. We were given the place of honor on every occasion and on the occasion of the call of the delegates on Señor Cantilo I was singled out by him for special attention and he took his position be- side me for the pictures taken. Throughout the Conference Cahill, Baldwin and Tesone were constantly appealed to for information and advice, based on what has been done and The Honorable Franklin D. Roosevelt, Washington, D. C. AIR MAIL - 2 - and attempted in the United States. And though from the beginning there was a division of the nations along political and ideologicallines, we were cultivated by both sides and were able to stand aloof from controver- sial divisions without compromising our position with either side. The first evidence of a division on political or ideological lines came with the announcement of the officers selected by the Argentine committee on arrange- ments, which designated Dr. Cafferata President of the Conference, with three vice presidents of whom I was one, and without recognition of Chile. The Argentine govern- ment delegates were very conservative and representative of the upper classes, and the slate of officers recommend- ed instantly was challenged by the Chilean chairman, sup- ported by the Mexican Ambassador in Buenos Aires, who headed the Mexican delegation, and by Colombia. To pre- vent bad feeling, if possible, I suggested privately to the Argentineans that the Chilean chairman be substituted for me as vice president but they refused to make the substitution. Instead they proposed to add two more vice presidents so as to include Chile. But the Chileans insisted that the conference elect the vice presidents by ballot. This was forced. In conversation with Luciano Kulczewski, Chairman of the Chilean Delegation and head of the Caja de Seguro Obrero, he said that the purpose had been to organize and direct the conference along reactionary lines and that the Argentine and Brazilian delegates had the "social mentality of the 1870s". This man is the son or grandson of a Polish teacher, IAM ЯӀА AIR MAIL - 3 - teacher, who migrated to Chile years ago, and he has done good work in his position in Chile. It is proper to add that his is the mentality of the socialist. The work of the Conference was divided between nine commissions, dealing with the Economic, Hygienic, Social, Financial, Architectural and Constructive, Judicial and Legislative Aspects, with Urbanism and Housing, with Education and with the Present State of the Problem in the countries of America. We assigned our delegates to the commissions that seemed the most important since, with the commissions meeting at the same time each day, it was impossible to have representa- tion on all, though Mr. Edward Trueblood of the Embassy in Santiago, was used in delegate capacity. The assign- ments were determined by the specialities of the delegates and in some instance it was necessary to designate two to one commission. That on Economics considered matters that pertained especially to the work of both Cahill and Baldwin; that on Social Aspect to the work of Tesone and Baldwin. Mr. Cahill served alone on the Finance Com- mission and Tesone alone on Architecture and Construction. I served on the Executive Committee composed of the heads of all the delegations, which concerned itself wholly with the program of the Conference. II It soon became evident that there were two distinct blocs in the Conference. One was lead by Mexico and Chile, and the other by Argentina and Brazil. The fight centered in the Social commission on the relative merits of collective and individual housing, the Mexicans and Chileans very earnestly insisting on collective housing, and M ЯӀА AIR MAIL - 4 - and the Argentineans and Brazilians just as fervently insisting on individual housing. With us of the North American delegation the contest at first seemed meaning- less since it appeared clear enough that financial, economic and geographical considerations must be the determining factor in each country and community; that while individual housing is good where practical, it would be prohibitive in congested industrial communities and large cities. We were finally forced to the conclus- 1on that the strange contest was predicated on the theory of the conservatives that it was politically and socially undesirable that large numbers of workers be thrown close together where they could talk over their grievances and possibly conspire. Indeed one conserva- tive referred darkly to the collective housing in Vienna and the conversion of the houses there into forts. The head of the Brazilian delegation when pressed by me to explain the reason for so much fighting on the kind of housing, said that the objection to collective housing is that it would lead to "promiscuity". When I smiled my amazement he stoutly added: "It would never do in Brazil". There is no doubt however that the cleavage was political and ideological. III While the debate was dragging on on this subject a declaration was handed our delegation to the effect that one of the solutions of the problem of proper habitations was the paying of wages permitting the worker to live in a decent manner in harmony with the dignity of man. It IAM ЯӀА AIR MAIL - 5 - It was signed by the Chileans, the Mexicans, the Colom- bians, the Panamanians and the Cubans. I interpreted this as well within the legitimate conclusions of the Conference, and in view of our own national position, I could see no justification for refusing our signature. The effect soon was seen when the Argentineans, supported by the Brazilians and the conservative group, submitted their set of resolutions in which, while insisting on individual housing, they, too, inserted a declaration that the workers should be paid a minimum wage that would permit them to live decently. This unanimous declaration of all the American Republics in favor of wages for workers in keeping with a human standard of living, in my judgement, was the most important position taken during the Conference, and in most South American Republics it may well be described as almost revolutionary. That which impressed me most in the undercurrent of the Conference was the indication that the most extreme conservatives now believe that decent housing for the workers means social security and stability for the state, and that the problem cannot be lightly dismissed but must be tackled when necessary by the state itself. There were two elements in the Conference but both seemed in agreement on this - one because it is the workers right, the other because policy decrees it. When the vote finally was reached on individual and collective housing, we submitted the following statement in explanation of our inability to vote for either one to the exclusion of the other: The ЯӀА AIR MAIL - 6 - "The delegation representing the Government of the United States wishes to make clear its position regarding the discussion about the con- struction of collective or private houses. In the United States both systems of construction have been carried out by public and private enter- prises. This has been based only on economic and practical reasons. In the work carried out for the disappearance of tenements, which would necessitate the construction of private and collective houses, it has been considered necessary from the social point of view, to contribute to the development of the type of houses which permit the residents to enjoy educational advantages, such as libraries, nursing clinics, physicians, and outdoor playgrounds, etc. It is considered that such facilities and ad- vantages will greatly contributeto the physical, public and economic development of people of limited resources. If the projects are well planned, these requirements may be realized whether the system of private houses or collective houses is followed." IV Throughout the Conference the delegation of the United States was treated with marked deference, due to a realiza- tion that we have attacked the housing problem more aggres- sively and on a larger scale than elsewhere; and it was clear that in all matters of controversy both sides were eager for our support. On controversial matters on which we did not feel authorized to take a position it was pos- sible to satisfy both sides, concerning our reason, by frank explanations in conversations. We were taken on a tour of the housing projects in Buenos Aires, some dating back fifteen years. First we were shown some individual housing projects. These were small, substantially built two story cottages with proper sanitation, light and air, and with back yards or gardens. However the rental was beyond the capacity of the worker. Later we were shown a large apartment house with suites of five and six rooms, as comfortable and attractive as ЯӀА AIR MAIL - 7 - as the average apartment house in New York City, but the rental here was beyond the reach of the worker, and, in fact, this apartment house, was primarily for super- annuated civil servants or the widows of officers. Thus the housing projects of Buenos Aires are for the "white collar" workers called, by the Argentineans "employees" to separate them from the "workers", and not for the"workers" who most desperately are in need of better housing. The Chileans, on the other hand, are concentrating on housing for workers who are in most desperate need of it. The most pretentious housing project shown us was the six story apartment house of cement and steel erected by the Socialists Union. Here the apartments are attractive. Two more apartment houses of the same size are near- ing completion. Even here however the rental is beyond the reach of the average worker and the explanation given me is not without its significance. It seems that the housing projects of private agencies sponsored by the Government get loans at three per cent, but that the Socialist Union must pay six per cent and thus increases the cost of the apartments. V One of the most significant features of the Conference was the presence of "associate" delegates -- consisting of people not designated by the Governments, but deeply interested in housing, -- such as social workers. These were all Argentineans from all parts of the Republic, and they impressed me as far more deeply in earnest about hous- ing ЯӀА AIR MAIL - 8 - ing than the governmental delegates, and much less con- servative as to methods. They took part in the discussions and were frequently sharply critical of the position of the Argentine Government delegates. At times they became & problem. That they had effect on the official delegation I have no doubt, forcing them to 8. more liberal position than they otherwise would have assumed. Their presence and their attitude indicate that outside official circles there are energetic forces working toward better housing for the workers in Argentina. VI Because various resolutions, especially from the Finance Commission, provided for measures and methods entirely incompatible with our policies and methods, our delegation sponsored a qualifying resolution to the ef- fect that these decisions reached in the resolutions should be applicable in the various countries to the extent only that they are consistent with the laws and customs of the different nations. We were approached with the proposal that the next conference be held in the United States and with the as- surance that this was the desire of all the countries 350.2 rute represented in the Conference. We could only reply that we had no instructions covering the point and could not in consequence extend a formal invitation, but that should the United States be chosen it would be a compli- ment appreciated. Washington was unanimously chosen. The Argentineans sponsored a resolution providing for the establishment of a permanent Pan-American housing committee, with headquarters at Buenos Aires, to carry forward M ЯӀА AIR MAIL - 9 - forward the work of the Conference and to facilitate an exchange of views on housing problems. It was suggested to our delegation that since the Pan-American Union had headquarters in Washington it would be well to have the committee stationed in Washington. However in view of the Argentine desire to have the committee in Buenos Aires we did not care to make an issue and so we accepted the desig- nation provided in the Argentine resolution. However this question is to be presented to the respective republics through diplomatic channels. VII While there was much idle discussion that lead no- where, over non-essentials, and perhaps not a great deal actually was accomplished, I am persuaded that this Con- ference has made history. On a continent where the housing conditions of the masses is pitifully miserable it has awakened a public interest in better housing for the city and rural workers. The press of Buenos Aires reported the pro- ceedings fully along with editorials of a sympathetic nature, and special articles. The Argentine Government issued a special postage stamp in honor of the event. There seemed to be a general realization that governments in South America cannot stand aloof from responsibility in the solution of the problem of housing for the working masses, and that decent housing means healthier, stronger people, and that money spent on housing projects is money spent on social security. This is something new in these regions. And the unanimous declaration on living wages was little less than revolutionary on this continent. I IAM ЯӀА AIR MAIL - 10 - I noted, too, a spirit of rivalry among these nations as to which has done the most in housing, and the continua- tion of these conferences will tend to sharpen this rivalry and lead to good. I am enclosing as part of this report the most important of the resolutions adopted. By boat pouch I shall send the press clippings, editorials and such other material as may give a complete picture of what was done and attempted. I cannot over emphasize the good impression made on everyone by our having on the delegation such competent experts in their line as Cahill, Baldwin and Tesone who constantly were asked for information on what has been and is being done in the United States. Respectfully yours, Chairman AM ЯӀА AIR MAIL TRANSLATION Ninth Commission Present state of the problem in America Conclusions (1) The Conference considers that the construction, aided by the State, of dwellings for urban and rural workmen and for public and private employees is of vital importance to the countries of America. (2) The Conference recommends the fostering of these con- structions as an indispensable means of conserving the social order in the nations and as the best element to raise the cultural and moral level of those who will be benefitted. (3) In order to develop this program there is recommended the setting up of central organizations, endowed with sufficient capital by the State to direct the work in the entire country, and which will receive the contributions of the municipalities and sectional governments. (4) For the adjudgment of the popular houses, the scale of wages must be taken into account in order not to burden the beneficiary with sums greater than those which the latter would be able to reasonably pay, in proportion to the rent of the dwelling he occupies. In the case that the necessi- ties of the workman (laborer, either urban, rural, farmer, or employee) may demand a dwelling superior to that which he can pay for out of his own resources, the state, through the autonomous RIA AIR MAIL -2- autonomous organizations, should furnish him, free of charge, the necessary money to bring the price of the house within his reach. (5) In order to give an effective development to this work, not only should the resources of the state be used, but also the institutions charged with it should make use of credit. (6) In order to keep these institutions non political, it is advisable that private entities take part in its constitu- tion. (7) The construction of houses through individual initiative, should be stimulated and aided, and means necessary for it, furnished. (8) The obligation must be imposed on business organizations to contribute in accordance with their abilities, to help their personnel acquire houses. (9) The amounts which the workers contract as debts for acquiring their houses, should be turned into cash, not only in order that they lend a greater service through rotation; but also to maintain the commercial morality between those so favored. (10) It is necessary to make an intense propaganda campaign in order to impress on all citizens the necessity of collaborating in the development of the popular house. (11) The credit institutions of all countries should aid in this important work, and the money holding class (capitalists) convinced of the obligation of bettering the conditions of the lower classes as a means of social security. (12) ЯӀА AIR MAIL -3- (12) Life Insurance of the debtors, destined to free the mortgaged property, is considered as an indispensable element in the building of the popular dwelling. (13) Governments should stimulate private initiative, examining the taxes and contributions to the entities occupied in this social work, giving them every kind of facility. We hope that the conclusions and recommendations which are given above may deserve a favorable reception by the Conference since they may so well be deduced from the particular case of Colombia, as was noted in this writing. Therefore, understanding the idiosynorasy of the South American countries, and through the data which we have been able to obtain, like problems are to be contemplated in all countries so that the adoption of the recommenda- tions, with the modifications which in each case suggest a middle course, can be adopted by all the countries. León Bugnot President M ЯӀА COUISION NOVENA ESTADO ACTUAL DEL PROBLEMA EN AMERICA CONCLUSIONES.- 1) 1) LA conferencia considera de vital importancia para los países de America la construcción favorecida por el Estado, de viviendas pa- ra los obreros urbanos y rurales y para los empleados públicos y pri- vados.- 2) La Conferencia recomienda el formento de estas construcciones 00- mo medio indispensable para conservar 91 órden social en las nagiones y a'omo el mejor elemento para leventar el nivel cultural y moral da los favorecidos.- 3) Para desarrollar este programa se recomienda la constituctó de organismos centrales dotados de capital suficiente por el Estad que dirijan las labores en todo el país y que reciban la contribución de los municipios y gobiernos seccionales.- 4) Para la adjudicación de las casas populares se debe tener an cuenta la escala de salarios, con el fin de no gravar nl beneficiario oon sumas mayores de aquellas que este podría pagar ragonablemente por concepto del arrendamiento de la vivienda que ocupa. 3n case de que la las necesidades del trabajador ( Obrero urbano, rural, campesino o em- pleado ) exijan una vivienda superior a aquella que 6. puede servir C con sus propios recursos, debe el Estado por medio de los organismos autonomos, facilitarle a titulo gratuivo el dinero ne cesario para 1.0.- bajar el precio de la casa.- 5) Para dar un desarrollo efectivo a esta labor no solo deber usar- se los recursos del Estado sino que las Instituciones encargadas de ello deben hacer uso del crédito.- 6) Para mantener estas instituciones alejadas de la política, es aconsejable que en su constitución intervengan entidades particulares 7) Debe estimularse y favorecerse la construcción de casna de ini- ciativa individual de los mismos interesados, facilitándoles Ios me- díos necesarios para ello,- 8) Debe imponerse a los empresarios la obligación de contribuir de su personal.- acuerdo con sus capacidades para facilitar la adquisición de casas a bajadores contraigan para la adquisión de sus casas, tanto que para que 9) Deben hacerse efectivos los servicios de las deudas los tra- los recursos en ellas invertidos presten mayor servicio por medio de la ciados.- rotución, como para mantener la moralidad comercial entre los agra- de al ánimo de todos los ciudadanos la necesidad de con colaborar fin llévar 10) Es preciso hacer una campaña intensa da propaganda el en el desarrollo de la casa popular.- 11) Las instituciones de crédito de todos los países deben en esta importante obra V debe llevarse al convencimiento de ayudar clases inferiores como medida de seguridad social.- talistas la obligación en que están de mejorar las condicioner los do capt- has vivienda hipotecada, popular,- se considera como elemento indispensable en la obra la finca da la 12) El seguro de vida de los deudos destinado a libertar do pbra de social impuestos y dándoles V contribuciones toda clase a de las facilidas.- entidades que se coupon en oximion- esta 13) Los gobiernos deben estimular la inbointiva particular, Esperamos que las conclusiones y recomendaciones que preceden me- AIR MAIL Translation Social Aspect Conclusions That it be left to the approval of the States to define their conception of the popular dwelling in their respective countries. (a) The Congress considers that the problem of the popular dwelling should be solved, preferably seeking the construction of individual dwellings the ownership of which may be acquired by the workingmen (employees or laborers) and may constitute family property (or the patrimony of a family). (b) In cases where economic or urbanistic reasons do not permit it, the collective dwelling may be chosen, but in such cases the greatest independence for each family should be considered. (c) It is the keen desire of the Congress that the different countries represented in it examine the urgent possibility of fixing a minimum family wage for the laborers and employees in order that they may be economically able to acquire their dwellings as their own property. Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, Venezuela, Uruguay, Eouador, Haiti, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, Argentina, United States, Peru. (d) That in order not to defeat the purposes sought with the individual and self-owned dwelling, life insurance should be procured, which takes into consideration the dis- appearance of the head of the family and the immediate taking of JIAM ЯӀА AIR MAIL -2- of possession by the widow, and thereby also the founding of a complete and national system of social insurance in order to meet the emergencies which the laborer or modest employee might be confronted with. (e) The Congress would be pleased to see that the states incorporate as a political, social and unrenouncable law, in their respective legislations, the non-allowing of the populating or exploitation of farm or cattle land with- out first having approved the previous arrangement of adequate lodgings in agreement with the common norms of hygiene, both physical and moral, for the home of the work- ingman's family;--likewise it recommends applying the same oriterion to industry in general. (f) The Congress would be pleased if the states which possess government-owned lands, and whose transference to private ownership is being established in a slow manner, that they should stipulate to those having already estab- lished concessions in them, the measures in order to assure for them a comfortable, hygienic and economic dwelling. (g) The Pan American Housing Congress understands that it is a duty of the states to intervene directly in the financing of the dwelling of that part of the people whose family budgets alienate them from the possibility of getting the house as their own property, said intervention being considered as a basic function of social order without this intervention obstructing the necessary and useful parts of the other factors that enter into the solution of the problem of the popular dwelling as being in substance: cooperatives, and private assistance. (h) JIAM ЯӀА AIR MAIL -3- (h) The first Pan American Housing Conference recommends the holding of conferences or National Congresses of the popular dwellings in order to advise the sanctioning of concordant and complementary laws which permit the carrying out of the ideal of the economic, urban and rural dwelling. (1) The Congress hopes that building institutions such as the Argentine Railroad Employees homes project, whose results give faith in what is going to follow in the organi- zation, may become general in America. It recognizes that the greatest guarantee of success in the organization of the kind of Argentine Railroad Housing Project, is in life insurance as an auxiliary guarantee of the loans and at the same time an element of social aid to the families of the borrowers, in the case of the death of insured. (1) The Congress, considering that it is a primal duty of society to watch over the moral and physical upbringing of the child of the working mother during the hours when she is at work, would be pleased to see the states intensify their action in favor of the creation of nurseries, gardens for infants and clubs for children of school age, forseeing their construction, in planning the workingman's districts. Desirability in the case that collective houses must be built, that the use of patios and gardens for children, be subject to the vigilance of people of the female sex of qualified morality and fitness. Desirability that the administrative organizations in charge of the adjudgment of suitable popular residences, establish for the same, a regime which assures that benefit especially to large families and families with children under 14. That JIAM ЯӀА AIR MAIL -4- That commissions be created of control and social aid which have charge of the formation of files and filing systems, registering the duly studied antecedents of the aspirants to the benefits which the respective laws accord. That commissions be set up with persons of recognized ability and altruism to carry on, ad honorem, the positions before mentioned, in order to regulate properly the func- tioning of these commissions. (k) The First Pan American Housing Conference recommends the holding of conferences OF national congresses of the popular dwelling in order to advise the passing of laws which are concordant and complementary to permit the carrying out of the ideal of the economic urban and rural dwelling. Resolution The first Pan American Housing Congress recommends: That each workingman's district, each group of cheaply priced dwellings, whether composed of private or collective houses, either privately owned or rented, must be furnished with the installations to aid medically, socially, culturally, and in recreation. Statement A statement of the North American Delegation in reference to its position regarding the construction of collective or private houses: The delegation representing the Government of the United States wishes to make clear its position regarding the discussion about the construction of collective (multiple ) or private houses. In the United States both types of construction have been carried out by public and private enterprises. This position has been based only upon AM ЯӀА AIR MAIL -5- upon economic and financial reasons. In the work carried out for the disappearance of tenements, which would necessitate the construction of private and collective houses, it has been considered necessary from the social point of view to contribute to the development of the type of houses which permit the residents to enjoy educational advantages such as libraries, nursery clinics, physicians and outdoor playgrounds and etc., and other types of institutions. It is considered that such facilities and advantages will greatly contribute to the physical, mental and economical development of people of limited resources. If the projects are well-planned, these requirements may be realized whether the system of private houses or collective houses is followed. FRANCISCO GUARDERAN President M ЯӀА ASPECTO SOCIAL CONCLUSIONES QUB quede & la apreciación de los Ratndos el definir el con- cepto de vivienda popular en sus respectivos países." a)- El Congreso considera que el problema de la vivienda po- pular debe solucionarse buscando de preferencia la construcción de vi- viendas individuales cuya propiedad pueda ser adquirida por los tra- Rajadores ( emplaados y obreros ) y constituida en bien de familia (o patrimonio de familia).- b)- En los casos que por razones económicas o urbanisticas T. no lo permitan, podrá optarse por la vivienda colectiva: pero en tales casos deberá contemplarse la mayor independencia para cada familia,- c)- Es un deseo vehemente del Congreso que los distintos baíses pâfses en 61 representados, contemplen la posibilidad urgente de fijar un salario minimo familiar para los obreros y empleados, con el fin de ponerlos en capacidad económica de adquirir su vivienda en propiedad.- BOLIVIA- BRASIL- COLOMBIA- PARAGUAY- VENETUELA- URUGUAY- ECUADOR- HAITI- NICARAGUA- COSTA RICA- HONDURAS- ARGENTINA- ESTADOS UNIDOS- y PERU- d)- Que para no defraudar los fines perseguidos con la vivien- da individual y propia, debe procurarse el seguro de vida que contemple la desaparición del jefe de la familia y la posesión inmediata para la viuda, ast como tambien la fundación de un si stema completo y macional de seguros sociales, para afrontar las contingencias a que pueda verse abocado el obrero o modesto empleado.- e)- El Congreso vería con agrado que los Estados incorporen, con caracter de derecho público social Arrenunciable, a sus respecti- vas legislaciones, el no consentir la población o explotación agraria- ganadera sino desoues de comprobada la previa disposición de alojamien- tos adecuados de acuerdo con las normas comunes de higiene fisica y mo- ral, para hogar de la familia obrera.- Asimismo, recomienda aplicar igual criterio para la industria en general.. f)- El Congrieso veria con agrado que los Estados, que poseen tierrax fiscales y cuya transferencia al dominio privado se realiza en forma lenta, arbitren a los concesionarios en ellas establecidos, económica.- los medios necesarios para asegurarles vivienda cómoda, higfenica y g).B1 Congreso Panamericano de la Vivienda Popular entiende que es on deber de los Estados, intervenir directamente en la financia- ción de la vivienda de aquella parte de la población cuyos presupues- tos familiares las alejan de la posibilidad de alcanzar la casa en pro- picdadjoonoidarande dicha intervención como función básica de orden social, sin que esta intervención obste a la necesaria y útil de los demás fectores que entran en la solución del problema de la vivienda popular como ser: el cooperativismo y la asistencia privada,- h)- El Primer Congreso Panamericano de la Vivienda Popular recomienda la celebración de conferencias o congresos nacionales de le vivienda popular, para aconsejar la sanción de leyes concordantes y complementarias que permitan llevar a la práctica el ideal de la v1- vienda económica, urbana y rural.- 1) EllCongrese hace votos por que se generalicen en América instituciones estructuradas cual lo es el Hogar Ferroviario Argentino cuvos resultados dan fé de lo ecertado de su organización.- Reconoce que la mayor garantía del éxito en la organiza- ciones de la indole del Hogar Ferroviario Argentino, radion en el se- guro de vida como garantía auxiliar de los prestamos, la vez que ele- mentos de ayuda social a las familias de los prestatarios en caso de muerte del asdgurado.- 1)- El Congress censiderando que es un primordial Aeber de la sociedad velar por el desarrollo moral y fisico del hijo de la madre obrera durante las horal en as e ésta cumple con su trabajo, vería on agrado que los Estados de America intensifiquen su acción en favor de la creación de salas dunas, de jardines de infantes y de clubs de niños en edad escolar, previendo su construcción al planear los barrios obreros.- Conveniencia, en el caso de que deban hacerse casa colecti- vas, de que el uso de patios y jardines para niños esté sujeto a la vigilancia de personas de sexo femenino de calificada moral e idonei- dad.- Conveniencia de que los organismos administrativos que tie- nen a su cargo la adjudicación de viviendas populares adecuadas esta- blezoan para la misma un régimen que asegure dicho beneficio especial- mente a las familias numerosas y con hijos menores de catorce años.- Que se creen comisiones de control y de ayuda social, que tengan a su cargo la formación de legajos y ficheros en los que se re- gistren antecedentes debidamente estudindos de los aspirantes a los be- neficios que acuerden las leyes respectivas.- Que se constituyan comisiones con personas de reconocida competencia y altruismo para desempeñar ad honoren los cargos antes mendionados.- Reglamentar debidamente el funcionamiento de esas comi- siones.- k)- El Primer Congreso Banamericano de la Vivienda Popular recomienda la celebración de conferencias o congresos nacionales de la vivienda popular, para aconsejar la sanción de leyes concordantes y complementorias que permitan llevar a la práctica el ideal de la vivienda economica, urbana y rural.- VOTO.- El Primer Congreso Panamericano de la vivienda popular recomienda: Que toda barriada obrera, todo conjunto de viviendas bara- tas, ya sea empuesta por casas individuales o colectivas, propias o de alquiler, debe estar completada con las instalaciones de asisten- ada médica y social, cultural y deportiva DECLARACION DECLARACION DE IA DELEGACION NORTE AMERICAN EN LO REFERENTE A SIT POSICION EN CUANTO A LA CONSTRUCCION DE CASAS COLECTIVAS o INDIVIDUA) LES La Delegación que representa el Gobierno de los Estados unidos, quiere aclarer su posición respecto a la discusión sobre la construcción de casas ctivas (multiples) 0 individuales. En los Estados Unidos ambos tipos de construcción han sido llevados & cabo por empresa públicas o particulares. Esta actitud no ha sido basada eino en razones económicas y financistas. En la obra llevada a cabo para la desaparición de conventillos, que involuera la construcción de casa individuales y colectivas, se ha creido nesesario desde el punto de cista social, contribuir al desarrollo de aquellas casas a que permitan a sus residentes gozar de ventajas educativascoomo ser bibliotecas, cunas clínicas, médicas, plazas, etc,, y otros tipos de instituciones. se considera que tales facilidades o ventajas contri- buirán grandemente al desarrollo.fisico, mental y económico de aque- llas personas de recursos limitados. S1 los proyectos son debidamente planeados, estos requisitos pueden ser realizados ya sea que se siga el sistema de casas individuales o colectivas.- Francisco Quarderas Présidente PSF: chile fill his nal EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA COPY SANTIAGO, November 27, 1939. Dear Joe:- (Gutsey) I have had a hectic time since coming here, first with the innumerable calls and countercalls of courtesy, the ceremonies, four or five speeches etc, and two weeks in Beunos Aires where the President sent me to head the American delegation to the First Pan-American Housing Conference before I had been here three weeks. At Beunos Aires I made the speech at the opening meeting replying on behalf of all the visiting delegates to the address of welcome from the Prime Minister, and recently here I spoke at a banquet in my honor attended by all the Government, by all the leaders of all the parties, journalists, bankers, business men, etc., and speaking on the new Latin American policy immensely pleased the crowd. It was on its feet cheering when I closed, and, contrary to the custom here, the papers ran laudatory editorials and diplomats of other Latin-American countries sent copies to their chanceries, and I was deluged with letters from leading figures here saying it was the most sincere-sounding interpretation they had heard. But I note that there is not so much as a mention in the American press. Ho-hum, whats the use. The war has settled the issue of the next convention unless Roosevelt positively refuses to run. If he runs he will be elected. If he does not and some one like McNutt is nominated we shall have a. candidate who instinctively is not liberal or progressive, and I note that it is assumed that he will be nominated if Roosevelt is not. I am persuaded however that Roosevelt will run. If he does you are all right in - 1 - - 2 - Pennsylvania; if not you will have a desperate fight and a meagre chance. This is a most beautiful country, the climate perfect, the city is charming, the people the best in South America because there is no mixture of colored races and the race here, a combination of Spanish, English, Scotch, Irish and German is much like our own. The people on the street here look exactly like people on the street in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Louisville, or Indianapolis - Middle West people. Our Embassy is a palace and very attractive, larger than the one in Madrid, better adapted to entertaining, and most impressive in appearance. I have given about eight dinners thus far for an average of 25 people each time. The town is more social than Madrid. The Union Club here is one of the best three in the world. The bar, by the way, is the longest in the Western Hemisphere. Two country clubs that are attractive. And with races every Sunday the Hippo club has the most imposing race course I have seen outside that where the Derby is run in England. The scenery is magnificent, especially in the lake region which I traversed on the way back from Buenos Aires - more beautiful than Switzerland. Vina del Mer, known as the "Biarritz of South America" is just what you would expect of Biarritz which means I am not wild about it. The war is fantastic. War for Democracy? Tell it to the marines! If it were for Democracy, England and France would not have bullied the Czechs into yielding to Hitler; they would not have exerted themselves through their Governments to crush democracy in Spain; they would not have chosen the wrongs of Poland which was as democratic as Portugal as the pretext for fighting; they would not be kissing both cheeks of Mussolini and Franco now while they continue their contemptuous denunciations of democracy. - 2 - - 3 - For Democracy? Forget it! It is a war to determine who dominates Europe. Now that Hitler and Stalin have joined forces the parlor reds and the parlor Nazis in America must feel foolish. They look it. Pat his it off fine in a sentence where she said on reading of the combination, "I see Stalin has joined the anti-comitern pact". If we are wise we will stay out. The war will either end in a typically dishonest Chamberlain peace that would disgrace us, or in the economic ruin of all nations in the war if it continues long. Roosevelt will get more glory historically by keeping us out than by being in. Sybil and Pat join in regards to your sisters. By the way I have run out of match boxes. I really must call on the Guffeys again. Regards. Sincerely, Claude G. Bowers. Tully File Chile - Box43 class MISS LEHAND: This has been thanked for. The President says to return it for the files. THE WHITE WASHINGTON HOUSE Mrs Roseevelt 1/2/40 MEMO FOR E.R. To thank him and keep in our files. F. D. R. bratone nemored THE 1-20-00 and 1-8-chile Santiags recember 18-39 leeas ures Rooseved;- A am inclosing for your amusement and possibly The presidents a little essay by Q small child in which you are described as "G nice lady"- which would not be mainimously very approved at southhampder or st reflects the believer of The wasses here Palms Beach. - and in spain. how spaniards, wes from Ple Treveles the warmest expressions of appreciation and former winsters, A love heard of your sympathy for Fle cause of democracy in Teat country. The present miserals mess in Europe was prepared in spain. The world is now paying the price of un elamberlaws appeasement" which las hought lave evand a eluseheliar Teat did not pease in our Time" s wonder ib you reach the press? waleout mackoused, The pale pink editions of a prous and seutrmental father was speaking in Ple coummons ore Fee troubles in Palastive Becouring sentimental without rhyne or reason he said w clerical toues :- how my earliest infancy & have heard time and argan the story of Bethlehers where a Prureo of Peace was born" and Then in a stage whisper prove churchies - " my god, & Flought N was Berming suicerely Cam ceaude spower SANTIAGO COLLEGE SANTIAGO CHILE December 14, 1939 Dictated Tuesday. Hon. Claude G. Bowers Ambassador of the United States of America Santiago Dear Mr. Ambassador, I have just returned from your office and one of my teachers of the Lower School has brought to me a paper written by a little girl of Italian extrac- tion. It seems the children were given the privilege of writing on any subject they wished, - Christmas, My Farm, Flowers, etc. I know that you will be interested in the sub- ject which little Lucy Mina chose! With kindest greetings, I remain, Very sincerely yours, Elizabeth Directora ecm.hr Lucy Mina. Santiago chile Eleven years old. Dec. 12/939. I Grade. The kind President of United States! In United States there is a very kind President. He is called "Franklin Roosevelt:- He has a kind heart and he loves peace. The Chileans love hims because he is such a happy man. He loves to go fishing, in the Gulf of fishes. Mexico and he catches big fat president Roosevell has done many good things for his country. They have a very powerful nary. helps the poor people. His wife is a very nice lady the This year the King of England visited United States. B efore United states belonged to England but it is a free country since 1776. 2 like all the presidents of U.S.a. but the oned 2 like best Removed for Whibit 9-20-85 are President Roosevelt and George Washington. oh, 2 would love to go to United States: Daddy says 2 am going when 2 am a big girl. EMBASSY OF THE *UNITED STATES OF AMERICA SANTIAGO, CHILE Personal VIA AIR MAIL un Eleanor Rooseved The white House Washington ANGE U.S.A lita 11.5.60 freeshel PS COPY EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Santiago, May 10, 1940 Dear Joe:- We have been pretty busy down here with the war phase and with a weeks entertainment of Admirel Byrd, and the papers come rather irregularly. I notice with a shock some time ago that Lawrence and his gang of traitors were fighting your renomination even after you overlooked the first treachery. Then the other day I got & letter from & friend saying: "Of course you know that your friend Guffey won a grand victory." That is all I know. I assume that the victory was in the primaries. I have read your book on the Third Term and it is fine. I cannot see any sane possibility now of Roosevelt not being drafted It is not a matter of tradition, or of personal desires; with the world in flames in the gravest crisis it has known in centuries the displacement of a tried man in whom the people have confidence for any one new would be unspeakable stupidity. I note that the country is demanding his renomination and I hope he will not hesitate. He need not utter a word. He can just stand mute. To elect & man like Dewey, untried, and ignorant both of national and international affairs, and merely on the strength of the fact that as a fair police court prosecutor he sent a men to the penetentiary would amount to insanity and would discredit democracy I see that after three years everyone has come to the conclusion I constantly hammered in in my despatches about Chamberlain. What a crime that he could not be thrown out until after nation after nation had been sacrificed and democracy was forced to face a facism with enormously extended frontiers. I foresaw and foretold everything that has taken place as the record shows; but I was looked upon as an ass and a mere "political appointee" by the wise boys for almost three years while every facist in disguise whispered among themselves that I was a "red". well, well, chickens do come home to roost. It begins to look as though we may be forced in by events. Hitler is a raving maniac now and there is no outrage of which he 1a not capable. I see you got Earle another job. Well, old boy, I am glad he was not in Penn. for the primaries to join his old pal Lawrence against you. Ho-hum. Regards to your sisters. Sincerely, /s/ Claude G. Bowers PSF: Chile chile May 24, 1940 MEMORANDUM FOR HON. SUMNER WELLES For preparation of reply. F. D. R. Enclosures fdr. tmb Let to the President 5/14/40 from Claude G. Bowers, Santiago Chile re the war and its possible repermussions in South America. Also copy of Confidential dispatch No. 512 to the Sec. of State 5/14/40 Re: Purported German Nazi Plans in Chile. May 24, 1940 My dear Hr. President: In complance with the request contained in your memorandum of May 24, I an enclosing a suggested reply for you to send to Claude Bowers in response to his letter to you of May 14. Believe me Faithfully yours, Summer Wellem Enclosures: To Mr. Bowers. From Mr. Bowers, May 14, 1940. The President, The White House. May 24,1940 Dear Claude: I have read your letter of May 14 and your despatch of the same date with a great deal of interest. I think there 1s no doubt that in the event of continued German victory in Europe, German agents in many of the Latin American countries will undertake immediately activities with a view to the overthrow of existing governments. I know that you will remain in close touch with the Chilean authorities and let us have by telegram if necessary all information of a disquieting character. You will have received by now a telegram requesting you to suggest the desirability of confidential conversations between military and naval officers of the United States and officers of the Chilean Army and Navy with regard to coordination of measures of conti- nental defense. I think it is desirable that a step of this kind be undertaken as soon as possible in the light of the existing situa- tion. with my ware regards, believe me Yours very sincerely, The Honorable Claude G. Bowers, American Ambassador, Santiago. Santiago,May 14,1940 Dear Mr President:- For your information I am inclosing a copy of a despatch which may be of interest apropos of the war and its possible repercussions in South America. Should the war spread and the Nazi-Facist International continue its victories and we ultimately be involved the status of Chile would be of importance to us. I am not afraid of the German Nazis here acting alone, but as I try to point out in the despatch there are some army conspirators in existence ,though these are not numerous I think, and certainly not among the officers in high commands However the technique of these brigands in Czeckoslovakia, Norway, Spain etc is to enlist the cooperation of reactionary forces in democratic nations in their and game start their crimes under the guise of not "tolerating communism"--communism meaning democracy .There are elements here as and there were in Spain that would gladly join forces with facism or nazism .I do not think there is any real danger, but there is always the possibility and in these days I am sure you will want to know any possible as well as probable dangers.The arrogance of the German nazis here is incredibleand disgusting to the Government here. .That which I would impress is this,--should the Nazis be 80 stupid as to attempt to inject themselves by force into the American scene ,it is in Chile that they would strike. Nothing that is happening in Europe now surprises me,as it was very clear to we as early as I936 that the organized forces of banditry of the totalitarian states had planned by terrorism and brute force to destroy liberalism and democracy in Europe ,and I saw the regearsal in Spain .I am still dumbfounded that so few of my colleagues appearedts have the most remote conception of the significance of what was going on . The cause of liberty and democracy won a major victory when the insufferable ass,pro-facist at heart, Chamberlain was pried loose from appeasement and Churchill was put in. Warmest personal regards, Sincerely, clauds & Doness Hon. Franklin D.Roosevelt The White House. No.512 Santiago, May 14, 1940 Subject: Purported German Nazi Plans in Chile Strictly Confidential The Honorable The Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir: Apropos of the attitude in Chile toward the war, I have the honor to report an incident which presumes to throw some light on the possibilities. A man with a slight accent, thought by the butler to be German, telephoned my house and asked to see me alone on an important mission. I arranged to see him at the office. He had the appearance of a business man of the middle class, well dressed, and shrewd. He claimed to be of Polish origin and to possess large means, and to be en- gaged - 2 - gaged in business here where he has lived for many years. He refused to divulge his name on the ground that he could not afford to be involved in any investigation of his story because of his business, and I got the impression that he may be on terms of social intimacy with the alleged Nazi conspirators of whom he told me. The substance of his tale is this: About the beginning of the war, a man appear here from Germany where he had been trained in the school of espionage and propaganda and had been a member of the S.S.organization. He is here as an agent of the Nazi Government for the purpose of organizing and preparing the large German population for an ultimate attempt to take over the Government. This man and his group have a compact organization which is prepared to obey instruc- tions from Berlin. They claim to have spies on all the embassies and legations and to have agents in many of them who keep them informed regarding the proceedings and papers in them. They have the wires tapped. "I could tell you much more", said this man, "but the other information 1a of such a character that should it be investigated and the investigation come to the at- tention of these people the source of the information would be recognized". He said he was unable at the moment to recall the man's name, but said he lived on the twelfth floor of an apartment house at Plaza Bulnes No. 80. He added, whether with significance or not I do not know, that the owner of the house, a woman, lived on the eighth floor. I have had inquiries made by members of my staff, regarding this house and the person on the twelfth floor, through - 3 - through an American, Mr. Hutchinson, who lives in the house, and he reports that three men live on this floor. These are Frederick Kaufman, Frnaz Mondschein and Eric Piket. The American informant understands that they are German Jews. That evidently 13 their story at any rate. However it is well understood that the Nazis have slipped many spies and agents in among Jewish refugees. The British Ambassador tells me that not long ago when some Jewish refugees appeared in London one of the real refugees, pointing excitedly at a man among them, exclaimed: "Why, that's the man who was in charge of the concentration camp where I was". The fact that these three may pose as German Jews does not necessarily mean that they are such. I have taken the liberty of speaking to Sir Charles Bentinck about this man's visit and I noticed that when I entered he immediately pulled plugs from the connections with the telephones since the British Embassy is acting on the theory that even with the receivers on the tele- phones down they can be made to serve as dictaphones. II The Idea of a German Nazi organization looking for the "opportune time" to "take over the Government" does not impress me 9.5 entirely fantastic. There is, as you know, a very large German population here, and, from all I hear, these are mostly militantly Nazi. While all the Germans in Chile are said to favor Hitler, I am told in southern Chile, where they are strongest, that only the younger men are active Nazis. But I om told that active Nazis they are. Were - 4 - Were the Germans alone to attemp to"take over the Government" they could and would be put down. But there may be some significance in the use of the words "oppor- tune time". There have been and still are military men in Chile who are in favor of military government and the ending of all democratic processes. There are some men of influence, because of their wealth and business connec- tions, who are 80 bitter against the Liberal Government in power that they would welcome a military coup d'etat. At the beginning of the Aguirre Cerda regime there was open talk of the Army rising in revolt and taking over the Government. There have since been two attempts that failed dismally because of the absence of any popular support. That there still are some officers, not the highest, who cherish this idea I am informed by the M111- tary Attaché, who knows them personally and 1a apparently 1a told by them of their prospective plans. They base their desire on the old familiar ground that they will "not tolerate" having the "communists" run the country, or the socialists having any part in the Government. All this is of the familiar pattern. In other countries this element has within the last four years not hesitated to join the Nazi or the Pascist elements - the same thing. If the Germans Nazis here are planning, in coopera- tion with some Army officers, a military revolt it could be given the appearance of having popular support by the German element of the population. As against the probability is the fact that the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, Army, Navy and Aviation, are said to be entirely loyal to the Government and to the President; that the major part of the Army comes - 5 - comes from the middle classes; that opposition leaders of the caliber of Cruchaga, President of the Senate, and Agustin Edwards, former Ambassador in England, are known to be opposed to attempts to change the Government by force, and they are partial to the Allies. However, I am calling attention to these incidents and reports because of all the countries in South America there is greater danger of a Nazi attempt here than in any other because of the German population and its aggressive attitude in the present war. Respectfully yours, CLAUDE 0. BOWERS CGB:LRL 820.02 file PSF:Chile 4 felsnah Santiago, Chile, May 25, 1940 My dear Mr. President: I am enclosing herewith a copy of a letter of a very confidential character which I am sending to Welles. It bears out what I wrote you recently about the dangers in Chile. Because of the German population here, larger in proportion to the entire population than elsewhere in South America, and because of the nitrate and copper, etc., I am still sure that should Hitler's temerity go so far as to con- template some action in the Americas he would be most likely to try it out in Chile first. I find that the Brazilian Ambassador, Gracie, who is a real friend of ours, shares my opinion, though he thinks that Brazil may be looked upon as a fertile field. Faithfully yours, Claude yBowes The President, The White House, Washington. Santiago, Chile, May 25, 1940 Dear Mr. Welles: When I called on Saenz last night regarding the confidential proposal in your telegram No. 84 of May 23, 12 noon, he agive every evidence of personal satisfac- tion and said that he and the President have been thinking that something of the sort would be wise; that it was all right to announce a policy of neutrality but that alone was mere "theatre" and that something prac- tical by way of preparation to meet any possible emer- gency is necessary. He said he would see the President today and try to give me an answer tonight. In the course of the conversation he asked if he could be perfectly frank and off the record, and then said frankly that there is a German problem in Chile, that there are officers in the Chilean Army who are Pro- German due in large part to the fact that the Chilean Army for years was under German training. He said that the heads of the Army and Navy are thoroughly Pro-Ally, however, but indicated that the situation is being watched and that the Department of Investigation had been reorganized and strengthened. He astonished me by saying that one officer had been discovered sending material to Germany and had been apprehended but that there was to be no publicity. This gave me the opportunity to ask if it would be impertinent were I to tip him off from time to time to any reports that came to me regarding German agents at work here. He said he hoped I would. I then gave him the names of two or three men who are said to be actively engaged in the work of organizing the Germans. He took the names and will personally see that an investigation is made if not already made. Meanwhile The Honorable Sumner Welles, Under Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. - 2 - Meanwhile I have heard that there are 10,000 Germans in Chile who have actually been trained and drilled for war purposes. This comes to Colonel Wooten through a pro-Ally officer of the Army. From another source I heard that there are 30,000 Germans organized. This seems a bit extreme but one never can tell. Let me reiterate with all possible emphasis my own conviction that these German agents count confidently on the assistance of the Fifth Column, so effectively used in Spain. The Fifth Column, aside from the Germans, embraces, first those in the Army of whom there may be very few, who want a dictatorship, and secondly, those of the Rights, the extremists without imagination, who want to get rid of a liberal government. In relation to the latter I am convinced that the men of brains and patriotism among the political opponents of the regime, such as Agustin Edwards, realize that more is involved in any possible conspiracy against the regime than local politics. I heard last night that the President has arranged a meeting with Rightest leaders, a semi-social gathering, not to be advertised. I have been told that in getting the Rightist leaders and the President together at my functions for Admiral Byrd I opened the way for this approach. These Rightists are Pro-Ally. I am wondering whether it is not just as well at this juncture for me to transmit such information and observations ascherein contained to you directly in the form of a personal letter rather than in the form of a despatch. If you would prefer otherwise, please let me know. I am enclosing a copy of this letter to the President. Sincerely yours, Claude 0. Bowers PSF:Chile chile THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 10, 1940. MEMORANDUM FOR THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE Will you read the enclosed from Ambassador Bowers and prepare reply for my signature? F. D. R. Letter dated June first to the President in re Nazi activities in South America. fill mel THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE WASHINGTON June 10, 1940 My dear Mr. President: In accordance with the request contained in your memorandum of June 10, I am transmitting a sug- gested reply for you to send to Ambassador Bowers. Believe me D Faithfully yours, Malls Enc. The President, The White House. Santiago, June I,I940 Dear Mr President I have written fully I think to Welles about the more recent developments here reagrding German Nazi activities . On the day of the receipt of the telegram proposing conferences between army and navy men I saw Seanz, the Foreign Minister, who is absolutely trustworthy and both pro-Ally and pro-American ,and found him not only agreeable but pleased. He very frankly told me that both he and the President are deeply concerned over the Nazi activities here. He added, and this is significant, that they were not uhmindful of the fact that there are some pro-German officers in the army .These are influenced in some cases by the long period of German training of the army here, and in some cases to their German blood. He said the higher officers, the three Commanders-in-Chief are pro-Ally and dependable He said that until almost the time of the arrival of our men on the th no one in Chile will know anything about it but the President and himself The President turned out to be heartily for the conferences and Seanz made the comment that they are coming none too soon. The definitive answer was not given until Wednesday morning when the Minister receives the diplomatic corps. Seanz explained that he thought mt visit would be less conspicuous on that day since my frequent trips recently to the Foreign Office has caused some curiosity and speculation. On Wednesday I found Seanz very much disturbed. This was due as I found to the fact that the British Ambassador had just poured out on him all the rumours afloat, some of them fantastic. The Ambassador afterwards told me he thought it good to throw a scare into then Government. I do not think it necessary. It is thoroughly disturbed The arrogance of the Germans here is increasing all the time. When the Government paper, La Nacion recently published, the day after my first call on Seanz, an editorial denunciation of the Fifth Column, in which Germany was not mentioned, the German Ambassador appeared promptly with a blustering protest. From every source I know, official and unofficial, I am safe in saying that it is commonly thought here that the Germans, who are numerous, are thoroug hly organized with the view of a coup d'etat ,and that while something of the sort may be attempted in several South American countries the first attempt will be made here for reasons I have Previously set forth. The South American countries are looking to us for leadership if I may Judge by the conduct of ther their diplomats here. Both the Brazilian Ambassador, Gracie, pronouncedly pro-American, and Labougle, the Argentine constantly come to the house to discuss the outlook and both insist that their countries are prepared to follow us whereever we lead. The danger of cooperation with the Nazis from the Rights is not so great now as it would have been five months ago. Augustin Edwards ,one of their brainiest men ,with whom I have close relations, and who served as Ambassador in London for many years and but recently returned, is militantly pro-Ally and opposed to any truck with the Nazis. Cruchaga, whom you know, has been represented as pro-German at heart. This is due to the fact that having been Ambassador to Germany he accepted the presidency of the German-Chilean Society before the war. He recently said he is a friend of Germany but quite as much a friend of France. He is a devout Catholic, what we would call a "professional Catholic", and it is incredible that a Catholic should favor the extension of Nazi rule. I asked Seqnz if in view of the menace to Chilean independence the Government is taking any steps to draw the patriotic Rightest into a common front. He replied that such efforts were being made .He said the Governments bill increasing the way of army and navy men was introduced for the purpose of leaving these men with no grievance.He said that this was being held up in the Opposition Congress. He implied that Rightest leaders who can be trusted as Chileans have been called in and the cards put on the table. He recently --the President I mean-- had a secreat meeting with some of the Rightests.I am told that my Byrd dinner when I got them together for the first time has been very helpful in getting them together Wierd tales are told of the great amount of war material in the hands of the Germans. They seem fantastic. However I should feel better about resistance to Nazi attempts if the Chilean army at this juncture had more machine guns and artillery and some more planes. All this ,I have no doubt, will be talked out at the coming conferences. I shall keep the Department constantly informed of all developments and shall write you personally of anything that I think you may want to have. With warmest regards Sincerely, Hon. Franklin D.Roosevelt The White House. clauds yhowers Dear Claude: Your letter of June 1 has been very in- teresting. As the days pass I see more and more indications that the governments of the other American Republics are increasingly de- sirous of the closest cooperation and under- standing with us here. The secret military and navel conversations have progressed so for without hitch and, I an gled to say, with- out publicity. Sumner Welles has told me of the valuable information with regard to German activities in Chile and in other places on the continent which you have sent to the Depart- ment and I hope you will telegraph up overy- thing of this kind which may, in your judgment, be of any significance. We must all of us be on the lookout and keep the closest watch of developments. Ny best regards and believe no Yours very sincerely, The Honorable Claude 0. Bowers, American Ambassador, Santiago. - Pslice THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 14, 1940. MEMORANDUM FOR THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE What are we doing about this? F.D.R. Dispatch from Ambassador Bowers from Santiago in re request from Azana, the Spanish Premier and President now ill in France, for permission to cross in American ship sent to evacuate Americans, with Mexico as destination. THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE WASHINGTON June 15, 1940 My dear Mr. President: In reply to the inquiry contained in your memorandum of June 14, I am enclosing copies of two telegrams sent on June 12, which show the action taken by the Depart- ment in this case. Under present conditions, of course, I do not see, as a practical measure, how former President Azana can get accommodations on any American ship unless a ship 1s later sent to evacuate such additional Americans as de- sire to leave Europe and can get to Lisbon. Believe me A Faithfully yours, Alls The President, The White House. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON NA s JUNTA ? UNDER SECUPTARY 3 June 14, 1940 MEMORANDUM FOR THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE What are we doing about this? F. D. R. JT This telegram must bE SANTIAGO closely paraphrased bE- fore being communicated Dated June 11, 1940 to anyone. (br) Rec'd 5:40 p.m. Secretary of State, Washington. 120, June 11, 4 p.m. STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL FOR THE PRESIDENT. I have a request from Azana, the Spanish Premier and President now ill in France, for permission to cross in any American ship that may bE sent to EVACUATE Americans, with Mexico as destination. WERE hE taken by Hitler it would mean a concentration camp and certain death. In view of his unfaltering charipionship of liberty and democracy and his constant services to us and our interests in Spain, I respectfully urge that consent bE given and Bullitt bE instructed accordingly. Azana's is a most Exceptional CASE, BOWERS NPL TELEGRAM SENT cK GRAY June 12, 1940 5 p.m. AMERICAN EMBASSY PARIS 654. Bowers has requested that Azana, the former Premier and President of Spain who is now in France and is 111 bE permitted as a matter of comity to cross on an American ship in order to proceed across the United States to MEXICO. In CASE another American ship should bE sent to Europe for repatriation work, you may as a matter of comity authorize Azana to board ship as a passenger for NEW York and to have his passport docu- mented to permit passage across the United States to MEXICO., 852,00.1 Azana/27 HULL A-L:BL:SRW EU RA U (SW) TELEGRAM SENT CK June 12, 1940 This tElEgram must bE closely paraphrased be- 6 p.m. COVE being communicated to anyone. (Br) AMEMBASSY SANTIAGO. 97. Your 120, June 11, 4 p.m. The request you make on behalf of Azana is gladly acceded to and Bullitt is being instructed appropriately. There are at present no plans for sending another VESSEL to Europe but if one should bE sent as a matter of comity facilities will bE Extended. HULL (SW) 852.001 Azana/27 A-L:BL:SRW EU RA U PSF: Chile THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 19, 1940. MEMORANDUM FOR THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE TO READ AND RETURN F. D. R. Letter to the President from Ambassador Bowers, Chile, in re his talk with President Aguerre Cerdas. SECRETARY OF STATE Capidal WASHINGTON June 20, 1940 My dear Mr. President: In accordance with the request contained in your memorandum of June 19, I am returning herewith Ambassador Bowers' letter to you of June 12 which I have read with a great deal of interest. Believe me D Faithfully yours, Hills Enc. The President, The White House. Satiago, June 12,1940 Dear Mr President:- No doubt you have seen my telegraphic report of President Aguerre Cerdas assurance to me,apropos the military mission that has just left here.Let me add that during the conversations there was not one jarring note;that the President and Minister of Foreign Affairs were delighted that this step should have been taken and cooperated fully and with enthusiasm; that the officers here selected for the conversations were the highest in the army and navy and air; that the agreement was complete. After the military men had agreed on all points not political and beyond their jurisdiction, the President who had been informed invited me to the Moneda where I saw him in the residential part in his study and he went the full length ,giving this pledge: (I) If Chile is attacked she will defend herself to the utmost. (2) If the United States is attacked Chile will go to her aid to the utmost if asked. (3) If a third American Republic is attacked that the United States wishes to protect Chile will aid her to the utmost. (4) If Chile should start a war of aggression against any nation she would not expect assistance from the United States and vice versa". He spoke with intense earnestness, clipping his words, speaking slowly,and emphasising the words "to the utmost" bystriking the palm of his left hand with the clinched fist of his right. He is absolutely honest and a clever man with plenty of "guts" whatever you may have heard to the contrary. I saw the Foreign Minister today and he too is delighted The President said one significant thing to me that I am passing on to Welles but I think you should have it also. He said that German diplomacy had been far superior to that of the British or the French and that no one would have thought eight months ago that an understand- ing on anything could have been reached between Stalin and Hitler. He then went on to say that German diplomacy would seek in every way through its agents and Fifth Columns to ab SOW dissensions among the American Republics to prevent solidarity in action. He said that the Fifth Column people in various South American countries having access to the press are doing all they can to stir up suspicions, jealousies and hates. I thought perhaps he had reference to the strange stories we have heard about the Canal arbitration between Chile and Argentina, all of which he insists were plain lies. I have been told by a journalist returning from Brazil that the Brazilians have a notion they may be attacked by the Argentinians. I know nothing of this. But there it is. I have no doubt that the President has good grounds for saying what he said. And he added that the United States through its diplomatic agents should follow this very carefully and combat it with the various Governments. I wrote you about Azana because Azana asked it and because I look upon him as one of the greatest ,most intelligent, and courageous champions of Democracy in Europe. If his life is endangered I am sure we cannot justify ourselves in refusing him permission to cross enroute to Mexico in an American ship. He is sick.as I know If he should fall into the hands of the brigands it would mean his death. He fought our present battle first to prevent the hideous line up of the totali- tarians in preparation for what we have today and time and again in truly great speeches during the war he pointed out that this present thing then in preparation was being tried out in Spain. I hope that he will not be refused. Your speech at the University of Virginia has created great enthusiasm and a profound impression here. I note fr m the radio noises that it wasapplauded there. I am so glad things are changing. In I927 Nick Butler made the Founders Day Address--God how Jeffersons bones must have rattled--in which he pointed out how fine after all facism was working out and how badly democracy, but leaving the impression that there was a lot to be said for facism. The next year I made the Founders Day Address on Jeffersons principles and said that "facism and communism are but the reverse sides of the same base medal", that both stood for the end of liberty, human rights and the freedom of the human spirit", and went after the fashionable apologists of Mussolini. It was looked upon as quite extreme. The Charlottesvi lle paper said editorially it was high time an old fashioned Jeffersonian speech were heard on Founders Day and Alderman wrote me a beautiful note to the same effect. He was ill and absent at the time. So good to hear 'em cheers the same ideas after twelve years. Since I began this note the A.P.correspondent has brought me the speech of Vargas on the battre ship. The text is precisely that of Mussolini. I have never trusted that man's democracy .He certainly is no such democrat as Aguerre Cerda. It smacked of Hitler too. I hope we make no such mistake as the Europeans made in Europe. They even banked on Hitler and Mussolini and banked on Franco whose waters will bear watching. Too many submarines in that region. Things don't happen, - they are made to happen. But our men who are doing the eastern coast and visit Brazil and Argentine should get the feel of things Your speechs was grand. I liked the fighting words. The "hand that held the dagger" was classic. Warmest regards, Sincerely, claude J Bower Hon. Franklin D. Roosevelt, The White House PSF; Chile - 1940 June 25, 1940 My dear Claude: I want to thank you for keeping me 80 well posted regarding developments in Chile. x429 Your recent letter of June 7 contains informa- X429-A tion of extraordinary importance. I was par- ticularly interested in the views of the President concerning the Nazi influence in the Army and in his belief that in the main the Army can be relied upon in case of any attempt to upset the Government. I hope that the President meets with success in persuading the Rightist leaders to put the defense and welfare of their country above their personal ambitions. It is hard for me to believe that Senator Cruchaga is not in sympathy with the President's policy in x1p73499 this regard. I have also read with interest your cables concerning the defense conversations between our military and naval officers and those of the Government. We could hardly have wished for better assurances of collaboration. I as sure that the happy outcome of these discussions was in no small part the result of your own patient and tactful efforts. You have my congratulations. Very sincerely yours, (Signed) Franklen D. Roosevelt The Honorable xpp7730 Claude G. Bowers, x303 American Ambassador, Santiage. x335 x463-le state European Has x198 *87 Original sent to State for delivery him 6/20/40 DEPARTMENT OF STATE WASHINGTON June 25, 1940 My dear Mr. President: In accordance with your request, I have been pleased to prepare the enclosed suggested reply for your signature to the letter which you received from Ambassador Bowers. J "aithfully yours, Enclosures: 1. Reply. 2. Letter from Ambassador Bowers. The President, The White House. Miss Geiger: Here it is--I have checked it out of my files. PTL THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 15, 1940. MEMORANDUM FOR THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR PREPARATION OF REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE. F.D.R. Letter to the President, dated June 7, 1940, from Ambassador Bowers in re Nazi activities in Chile. Santiago, June 7,1940 Dear Mr President:- I have kept Welles informed largely through per- sonal letters with the situation here which is serious because of the minute organization of the German Nazis who are numerically important and because of a certain pro-German tendency on the part of numerous army officers because the army here for years was trained by German officers. I inclose a despatch covering this phase. The other day I was with the President alone for an hour .He is a clever and charming man ,admittedly honest and liberal, and pro-Ally and pro-American and we talked with the utmost frankness apropos the coming of our officers for consulations today. He tells me that there are pro-Nazi officers in the army ;and he surprised me by saying that while the greater part of the General Staff are pro-Ally there are men on the General Staff who are pro-Nazi. He knows that the Nazis have their agents and spies in various departments .He apparently believes that in the HI case of an attempt by the Nazis to take over the Government he can depend on the army while realizing that there are some officers who would be disloyal. He thinks the Government will prevail unless there is a disposition on the part of the dis- gruntled, discredited and defeated Rightests to join in regardless of the effect on their country. I had previously inquired whether in view of the circumstances if any communication pitched on the plane of country had been had with Rightest leaders who are primarily patriotic. I find since that the President has called in the Rightest leaders in Senate and House and put all cards on the table and appealed to them to subordinate party politics for the moment to the good of the country. I have learned from another source that some of the Rightest leaders were deeply and most favorably impressed with the Presidents sincerety and patriotism .One or two die-hard Tories thought he was merely playing politics. Among those with whom the President is conferring is Augustin Edwards ,for many years Ambassador in London,a Liberal (Rightest) who intellectually looms higher than any perhaps ,along with Cruchaga with whom you are probably acquainted. There had been a political feud and I broke the ice and paved the way for these conversations oy. breaking all precedents and inviting both the President and Edwards to my dinner and ball for Dick Byrd. The communists here are pro-Nazi ,decidedly so, and th by are in very bad odor with the Government. My call on the President brought much publicity and speculation, and in view of the fact tha t the press here had just carried a story about Welles conversations with the Argentine, Brazilian and Uruguan Ambassadors and Minister concerning the continental securety against European aggression and the menace of the Fifth Column it was assumed that my conversation wwas along the same line. The communist paper alone today carries an editorial predicated on the thought that it was some kind of an infringement on the bsovereignity and independence of Chile for me to talk with the President .The German Ambassador runs down to see the President once or twice a week usually with some arrogant protest which appears to be all right with the communist organ. The Argentine and Brazilian Ambassadors ,both high grade and able men and both anti-Nazi ,the latter decidedly pro-American and the other certainly not anti, talk with me frequently and all look to the United States for leadership. The Argentine is rather critical of the Government here because of its hesitacy in the sinking of the Argen- tine ship.I try to cool him off a bit by calling his attention to the very delicate situation here which requires cautious handling. Our army and navy men arrive by plane today ,and the President here on their arrival will designate the men with whom they are to confer. There is another matter that is causing us considerable concern. There are many copies of the "Whaley-Eaton Service" received regularly here. It is "news" furnished to Big Business men in foreign countries and probably in the United States ,and of course is always unfair to and critical of o your domestic policies ,but since it circulates almost exclusively among the die-hard Tories that does not harm. But the Military and Naval Attaches this morning call my attention to the last Letter which is headed "Actual A Status of the Army"and carries questions and answers before the congressional committee when General Marshall was before it I presume this committee meeting was in ex- ecutive session though Id do not know. The nature of the questions and answers is calculated to create the impression that we are in a verys serious state . These local representatives of American Big Business talk among themselves and to others of the contents of these letters ,but ,more serious, some Chilean business men subscribe for the service ,and the effect on them is very bad. It tends to undermine confidence in our capacity to do anything and consequently increases the feeling that the Germans will dominate the world. We all feel that the inclusion of this matter in this Service intended largely for foreign consumption is unpatriotic or worse. I think it possible you may decide it worth while to have some one give a heart to heart talk with the editors. At any rate you ought to see it. The military and naval attache are drawing up a war plan for Chile in the event conditions force us to intervene here to prevent the establishment of an arrogantly and blatantly Nazi Government under the direction of Berlin. Gestapo agents are here from Germany. Letters to Berlin have been intercepted and are in possession of the Government here showing that the whole movement here is directed from headquarters in Berlin. We are told that these Nazis have arms sent from Germany to Buenos Aires and slipped in from there and that uniforms of the Carabaneers are here to be donned as in Holland. If Hitler strikes in the Americas I am still persuaded it will be first here rather than Uruguay which Washington seems to favor, though of course I am not familiar with the situation there It looks bad in Europe though the elimination of Chamberlain and Deladier, the heroes of Munich and Spain, is promising at least a resistance. Churchills spirit is --Churchills spirit which is praise enough. And where is Baldwin? We hear so much in Bankers Clubs and Chamber of Commerce meetings about how well Governments would be run if in the hands of "business men". Have you ever thought of this? For the first time in the history of Britain she has had in success- ion two business men at the head of the Government--Baldwin and Chamberlain. The policies of these two pompous asses has brought Britain down to its lowest point of prestige and power since the days of Elizabeth. "Nuff sed" Regards and best wishes, Sincerely, Hon. Franklin D.Roosevelt claude 7 Bowers. The White House. P.S.Since writing the above a Dr Fuchs, German-Chilean since the World War in which he fought, and said by himself to be at the head of an anti-Hitler organization has called on the Military Attache and furnished important information--if true. To the effect that the Germans have 7000 regular trained men ready for action with 20,000 others, also with arms, ready to help ;that nine Nazi officers are now on their way here;that every American business here with honeycombed Nazi agents in positions instantly to sabatoge; that the Nazis plan to strike here very soon. He also says that our friend Cruchaga is a prominent member of the Fifth Column. I have often heard this and always discredited it as did the President in my conversation with him this week. He certainly is the head of a German cultural society here which has come to be pro-Nazi but I have assumed that he accepted the presidency before trouble came and waz offered it and accepted it because he had been Ambassador to Germany. But these reports on Cruchaga come thickly nnd this man says he is on the pay roll. Am telegraphing all this today and you will have seen it before this letter reaches you. CRB PSF:Chile- - 1940 COPY July 1, 1940 Dear Claude: The information and observations you sent me in your letter of June 19 were very interesting. I 9.m encouraged x87 by the indications of growing inter-American solidarity which you reported, and I hope that this tendency more than balances the other developments you mentioned. In view of the emphasis of your recommendation that naval vessels be sent soon to visit Chile, it was possible to arrange for a visit by the Phoenix, as you were informed. Other demands on the fleet made it impossible to send more than one ship at this time. As you know, it 18 considered generally unwise to reduce the strength of the fleet by sending too many of its important units off on independent operations. Very sincerely yours, FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT The Honorable XPP7730 Claude G. Bowers, x303 American Ambassador, Sentiago. x463-6 xle.F State European War x429 x18 Mis Mis x429-A Department of State RA BUREAU DIVISION ENCLOSURE TO Letter drafted ADDRESSED TO The President - . PROVIDER - 1003 ADDRESS OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE WASHINGTON, D.C. DEPARTMENT OF STATE WASHINGTON July 1. 1940 My dear Mr. President: I have received your memorandum of June 26, 1940 enclosing a letter of June 19 you have received from Ambassador Bowers in Santiago, Chile. In response to your request, I am enclosing 8. draft of 8. suggested reply to Ambassador Bowers for your con- sideration and signature if you approve. TD Faithfully yours, Halls Enclosure: Draft. The President, The White House. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 26, 1940. MEMORANDUM FOR SUMNER WELLES:20 For preparation of reply. F.D.R. Letter from Hon. Claude G. Bowers, Embassy of the U.S.A., Santiago, 6/19/40 to the President, stating that the Sociolists of Chile have formally determined to go along with the U.S. one hundred percent in all matters relating to the international situation and to support continental solidarity to the limit. Also refers to Nazi activities in Chile. Santiago, June 19,1940 Dear Mr President:- I have just written Welles on our recent develop- ments in Chile regarding the Nazi plans and activities and he may mention them to you. My purpose in writing now is to tell you that for the first time in the memory of man the Sociolists are lined up here with the United States. Schnake, the Minister of Fomesto, and the intellectual of the sociolists ,assured me of this some time ago. He has just reiterated it to a member of my staff. But more significan is this: Marmaduke Grove, the popular leader of the Sociolists, and reputed by the ultra-conservatives to be a dangerous man asked to see me and I lunched with him the other day. He has the appearance and manner of a gentleman and he has a good mind .He is the iffol of the sociolist rank and file, their favorite orator. The substance of his conversation can be summed up in a sentence: The Sociolists have formally determined to go along with the United States one hundred per cent in all matters relating to the international situation and to support continental solidarity to the limit. His sincerety was made manifest that very night when he addressed a mass meeting of the sociolists in the plaza before the Moneda Palace in which he said with great emphasis and to great applause that "Chile stands for continental solidarity in the face of present dangers UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF THE NORTH AMERICAN REPUBLIC". That the Nazis are prepared to strike here there can be be doubt. I need not reiterate what I have previously written. There are between twenty and thirty German officers here now and numerous Gestapo from Berlin. We hear that the Nazis are in possession of arms ,principally light machine guns, smuggled in from Germany . The method pursued here is an exact repetition of the method adopted in Spain.The one missing feature is now reported--anni increasingly large number of German "settlers" have appeared at Aysen ,proposing to settle on the sound behind the Isla de Cisnes which is long and deep ,running northeast from the Canal de Gay in the southern section which may become of vital importance to us and our defence plans. The Government is 8 cognizant and is now going into the land grants in search of irregularities on which an expulsion can be based. It has no doubt that these "settlers" are financed from Berlin. I was greatly disappointed over the cancelation of the visit of the four ships. The moral effect would have been great .I still hope there may be a reconsideration and that at least two can be sent We hear now that the coup is slated for July. It may be mere speculation.It may not come at all. The international situation will probably determine. I note--with a shy smile behind my hand, that Franco is in on the carving up of Spain .He has been in all the time. The Spamish Charges here told the Yugoslavian Minister that of course Spain would be in with the Nazis since "Franco is too deeply indebted in gratitude to Hitler and Mussolini to hesitate". If not Franco, then Francos boss, Suner. What a world. And yet so plainly outlined by events for the last three or four years. The treachery of Leopold was deliberate, timed, planned and dictated by Mussolini .The French army puzzles me .Yet I was told for two and a half years when at San Jean de Luz that the French Government stood for so many outrageous things because the French army was so crowded with facists that it could not be trusted. I wonder. The Republican convention is not so much as mentioned down here even among the American business men. Regards , Sincerely, ceaude 7 Bower Hon, Franklin D.Roosevelt The White House. full PSF: Chile the Santiago July 2,1940 Dear Mr President:- Congratulations on the nomination of the Big Butter and Egg Man of the Utilities,financed by Wall Street ,and indorsed from Berlin by Hitler. Some people have all the luck. I note that the distinguished Roy Howard has captured the nominee on the fly and presume that the U.P.which I have observed for three years to be pro-totalitarian will support him At his palace at Vina del Mer the other day President Aguirre Serda walked me in a drizzle in the garden for forty minutes talking about the Habana conference. These people here have acted promptly and I think wisely on the conference and I have written Welles some suggestions regarding the character of the delegates for the use of Hull. While six delegates are named and this may seem more than necessary it appears wise to me because for the sake of national solidarity in an international crisis it is especially important here that all the ma jor political parties be represented. The President has named a distinguished Conservative party Senator and a brilliant Liberal international lawyer along with Radicals and one Sociolist. Schanake, Minister of Fomento, and a sociolist. is chairman. This in a way is unfortunate ,but only because of possible prejudices, since he is more familiar with the economic phase to be discussed than any one else, and he is pronouncedly pro-United States and is a reasonable and conciliatory man. We have two decided ill wishers and enemies here--the German Nazis and the Spanish embassy which resents "the unnatural influence of the United States". Now that the Sociolist party has formally and official -ly voted to go along with us IOO per cent we are in the best poss- ible position. Our popularity was never greater I am sure.The Univer- sity of Chile celebrates our Fourth BE this evening when I speak;the Catholic University on the 5th when I speak;the leading public school on the morning of the 4th ;the Boy and Girl Scouts come to the Em- bassy Garden on the morning of the 4th with a band;on the 6th the working classes have arranged a big observance at the Municipal Theatre when Pedegral among others has been asked to speak, and it is expected that the President and Minister of Foreifn Affairs will attend. All this does not opularize us with the Fith Column which we believe may attempt something soon.Last Saturday night when I gave a dinner for the Minister of Foreign Affairs ,having thirty two ,and most all South American Ambassadors and Ministers, the Government ,having heard that Gustavo Ross was arriving by plane here had taken vigorous measures. The leading officers of the army had been summoned by the President and instructed. Soldiers were at the landing field. But Ross who was supposed to arrive with Ibanez, the Nazi hope, failed to appear. Todays papers say he has left New York by plane for Argentine. It is not improbable that the easy money the Nazi or Fifth Column people seem to have comes in goodly measure from Ross. There is a story that the Fifth Column and the Nazis may make an attempt between the IOth and 15th,-but the gossips were equally certain it would be between the 15th and 20th of June, so it may be mere "conversation". It must now be clear that the Fifth Column did its work in France and that Petain himself was part of the facist Fifth Column along with other officers as I had heard while in France. Laval the notorious corruptionist and confessed traitor in that he was in close communication with Mussolini after the war began is a symbol of what happened in France, now that he is in power. The special N.Y.Times correspondent,Porter, was just in .having come from Brazil, Argentine and Truguay. He reports that the British Embassy in Rio is completely inactive while the Nazi forces are exerting them- selves to the utmost. Here, apropos of this, is something that might possibly be passed on discreetly to the British in Washington. It has been arranged that Sir Charles Bentinck, the Ambassador here for several years, immensely popular here, entirely familiar with the situation here, and very active here, shall be displaced next month by a man who never had a post until very recently when he was sent to the country where John Wiley is our Minister. This man was an offic man dealing with papers and not men all his life. Wiley reports that he is very weak, very sick ,frail, and not at all active. To send & man like that here where the Nazi problem is acute at this time and to displace a man who is effective and popular seems to me incredibly stupid. Bentinck is to be retired but he is willing to stay on. He is cooperating with us fully. Would be be a breach of protocol and what- ever they call it to pass a hint to London that this is a bad time to swap horses in Chile? It may be impossible but I pass on the S ggestion feeling sure it is justified under the circumstances. With warmest personal regards, Sincerely, claude sBower Hon.Franklin D.Roosevelt The White House. PSF: Chile Santiago, July 20,1940 Dear Mr President:- The inevitable long foreseen has come ,and while it may mean discomfort for you it is manifestly necessary for the country in the present crisis. Like Napoleon your record has meant that you are "doomed to grandeur", and nothing can change it. I congratulate the country, not you. Events of the week here are of such a character that I feel you should have a birds eye view of them. The boorish ,blackguardish, bullying facist act of the military gentleman who stumbles around in the Foreign Office in Madrid in breaking off diplomatic relations with Chile ,without any warning and without any reason that would be recognized as such in any really civilized regime, and with the statement that because of the liberal government and the democracy here, Chile is in a state of anarchy ,has unified all parties here in magnificent support of the Chilean Government. Having observed, not without intelligence I can say on the record, the serpentine trial of the totalitarians in Spain ,it seemed clear as crystal to me the moment I heard of the act of Madrid that it had been dictated by Mussolini and Hitler, one or both, with one of two objects in view. One may have been the hope that this would interfere with the harmony at Habana; the other, more probable, that it would furnish the typical facist excuse for the rising of the Fifth Column. s The attack on the regime here as "anarchitic" because it is of the popular front, on the regime because it is democratic, was intended for international consumption and was probably planned with the idea 1 the Rightests would say:" See to what depths we have fallen. The savior of civilization and christianity in Spain in his purity sweetness and light, can no longer afford to permit his spotless garments to touch ours ,and We must in self respect rise now with the Fifth Column, under the direction of the Nazi nobility, and over- throw this government". But alas for the best laid plans of mice and men the Chileans in Rightest circles only laugh at the action of Madrid as stupid;and the Rightest parties lead the praise of the attitude of the Chilean Government and in denunciation of that of Spain, and serve notice that all Chileans are one in resentment of Francos insolent action. I have sent the editorials of the leading Rightest papers to the Department .El Mecurio, Edwards paper, says bluntly that the Spanish note is an insolent attack on Chilean sovereignity and on its democracy which Chileans will defend. So much for that. The other event is most important. I think I wrote you that Aguerre Cerda recently called in Rightest leaders in the Opposition Congress ,laid the international situation before them, and appealed for a common front. This apparently has had effect, for on the I7th the national chairmen of the Conservative and Liberal ,or Opposition parties, and the Radical party, the leading Government party, met and signed an agreement based on five propositions on which the Opposi- tion Congress agrees to discontinue its policy of delay on Administration measures ,and to work in close cooperation with the President. Among these propositions ,all sent the Department, there are several which represent great concessions on the part of the Conservatives, such as the agreement to appropriate largely for housing, to consent to the organization along union lines of the peasants, and to agree to a minimum wage scale for the farm workers. The Leftists have agreed to another proposition to stop the constant interference in industries of non-governmental committees that have been inspired I am afraid very much by the Nazis and communists. The Sociolists are not entirely happy about it but have announced their willingness to go along. If this plan is adopted it will mean a greater unification of forces than has been known or possible in Chile for a very long while. In- cidentally it will probably mean that our friend Pedegral may become Minister of Finance. The press here is most lauditory over your renomination, papers of all parties except the Communists.Any other result in the Convention would have had a very bad effect in South America. I suspext it would be ifficult to convince our own Fifth Column of this, but the fact is that South America has confidence in our intentions for the first time ever, and it is due to complete confidence in you. Had you passed out of the picture at this juncture it would have been a dash of cold water on the warming up of South America toward us. We need twelve years to undo all the stupid things we have done in the last hundred. And twelve years should do it. The Phoenix made a great impression. What a beautiful and powerful ATTa boat. The officers were wined and dined at Valparaiso, and they came here and I accompanied them to the Foreign Office and the Ministry of Defence and had thirty two to dinner for them, including the Admiral of the Navy, Minister of Defence and a number of other Chilean officers. The next day I went to Valparaiso to a luncheon on board with Chilean naval authorities where "water flowed like champagne " but a good time was had by all. Then we paid homage to Arturo Prat, the great naval hero of Chile, by placing a wreath on his monument in the presence of a great crowd. Chilean soldiers and sailors were lined up whwn we arrived and a little later our boys headed by the band made a dashing appearance ,and our band played the Chilean anthem with more fire and das h than I have ever heard it played before, to the delight of the Chileans. After the ceremony the Chilean armed forces and our boys marched by in review. It all did much good. Wallace nomination offsets McNarys with the farmers;and it also gives an all-American touch to the picture. With Wallace on the ticket and Stimson and Knox in the Cabinet why don't you spend the campaign fishing in Chile. ? With warm personal regards , Hon.Franklin D.Roosevelt Sincerely, The White House. claude & Rowes