Did South America Participate in World War II?

Yes, South America did participate in World War II, though the level of involvement varied by country. Brazil, in particular, played a significant role in the Allied war effort, with many other nations also contributing in various ways. This article delves into the contributions of South American countries during the war, focusing primarily on Brazil's involvement in the Italian campaign.

Brazil: A Key Contributor

Brazil was the most significant South American contributor to the Allied war effort. It declared war on the Axis powers in 1942, shortly after Germany's expansion into North Africa. Brazil quickly mobilized its military and sent the Brazilian Expeditionary Force (FEB) to fight in Italy. The FEB played a crucial role in the Italian campaign, both on the ground and in the air.

Brazil in the Italian Campaign

Brazil’s ground forces saw action in the Battle of Monte Cassino, part of the larger Eighth Army campaign. Brazilian soldiers distinguished themselves in fierce fighting, earning recognition for their bravery and skill. In addition to ground troops, the Brazilian Navy provided essential support, escorting supply convoys across the Atlantic Ocean. Tragically, several Brazilian sailors lost their lives in the waters of the Atlantic, their final resting place still at the bottom of the sea.

The transformation of Brazilian public opinion regarding the war is a fascinating aspect of this period. Initially, many Brazilians joked, “A snake will smoke before we go to the front,” demonstrating their initial reluctance to become involved. However, the sinking of several Brazilian cargo ships by the fascist Reich changed public sentiment dramatically. Brazilians soon echoed the sentiment, saying, “A snake will smoke,” signaling their determination to join the Allied cause.

From Laughter to Caution

The shift in public sentiment was not just a change in rhetoric but a reflection of the harsh realities of war. The sinking of Brazilian cargo ships by German U-boats in 1943 was a turning point. The loss of these ships and the lives of their crews deeply affected Brazilian morale and political resolve. The government's decision to declare war on Germany was thus a result of a combination of strategic considerations and the desire to avenge the loss of lives and assets.

Overseas Deployment

By the time Brazil entered the war, it had already prepared extensively. Brazilian forces were trained and equipped under the guidance of American military advisors. By 1944, the FEB was ready to deploy to Italy. The FEB was split into two brigades and sent to support the Eighth Army in the Italian campaign. The Brazilian soldiers were integrated into the American and British command structure, facing the Axis forces in the final months of the War in Europe.

Other South American Countries

While Brazil was the most significant contributor, other South American countries also played supportive roles in the Allied war effort. Argentina, Chile, Peru, and several other countries declared war on the Axis powers, particularly near the end of the conflict in 1945. These nations contributed resources, provided logistical support, and offered bases for Allied operations.

Chile, for instance, maintained its neutrality for much of the war but declared war on Germany in 1945. Peru, like Brazil, declared war on the Axis powers in 1945 and provided resources to the Allies. Meanwhile, Argentina eventually declared war on Germany in March 1945, though its involvement was relatively minimal. These countries, while not on the front lines, played crucial logistical and political roles that supported the Allied war effort.

Conclusion

The contributions of South America to World War II are significant, even if often overlooked in the broader narrative of global conflict. Brazil, in particular, demonstrated exceptional bravery and strategic importance, sending over 25,000 men to fight in Italy. Their journey from initial reluctance to full involvement in the war effort is a testament to the complex diplomatic and military challenges of the time. As we continue to study and remember this era, the contributions of South American nations are an important chapter in the overall history of the war.