Chile during World War II

Chile remained neutral during World War II and did not actively participate in the conflict. The country, led by President Pedro Aguirre Cerda during the early years of the war, maintained a policy of non-intervention and focused on internal matters. Several factors contributed to Chile's decision to stay out of the conflict.
Chile was undergoing a period of political stability under President Aguirre Cerda, and there was a desire to avoid involvement in the external conflicts that were gripping many other nations. Chile had strong economic ties with both the Allies and the Axis powers. The country was a significant supplier of copper, nitrates, and other minerals, and its economy was dependent on exports. The government aimed to protect its economic interests by avoiding taking sides in the war. Chile's geographic location, situated on the western coast of South America, provided a degree of isolation from the main theaters of war in Europe and Asia. This geographical distance contributed to Chile's ability to remain neutral. President Aguirre Cerda implemented a policy of focusing on domestic issues and social welfare, particularly in addressing issues related to poverty and education. This domestic focus was prioritized over involvement in the global conflict.
Despite its official neutrality, Chile faced some challenges during the war. The German navy carried out operations in the South Atlantic, and there were concerns about the possibility of German submarines operating near Chilean waters. The codename for the German espionage in Latin America during World War II was named Operation Bolívar and was major in Chile, Argentina and Paraguay. Additionally, there were internal debates and divisions over the country's stance, with some factions expressing sympathy for either the Allies or the Axis powers. After President Aguirre Cerda's death in 1941, his successor, Juan Antonio Ríos, continued the policy of neutrality. Chile maintained diplomatic relations with both Allied and Axis nations throughout the war. It wasn't until after the conflict that Chile, like many other nations, participated in the establishment of the United Nations in 1945.


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SOURCES
– A History of Chile, 1808-2002 (Simon Collier, William F. Sater).
– Latin America During World War II (Thomas M. Leonard, John F. Bratzel).

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   • 1943 Parade and celebration in Santiago as...  
1943 Parade and celebration in Santiago as Chile joins the United Nations
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