Why Did the Nazis Have Such an Unusual Interest in Argentina?

The history of Nazi Germany's interest in Argentina during and after World War II is a complex and often misunderstood story. This article delves into the reasons behind this significant tilt, including political, economic, and ideological motivations.

A Sympathetic Government

Argentina, particularly under the leadership of President Juan Peron, became a haven for German Nazis due to its sympathetic government and historical ties with Germany. Before the war, Argentina had a burgeoning German community, with around 500,000 German immigrants by the 1930s. This community maintained close economic and cultural ties with Germany, contributing to Argentina's relative neutrality during the war.

Post-war, the situation changed dramatically. The Argentine government, under President Peron, was not only sympathetic to Nazi ideologies but also sought to leverage these ideologies for political and economic gains. This led to the establishment of "ratlines" or escape routes that smuggled thousands of former Nazi leaders and SS officers out of Europe via ports in Spain and Italy to Argentina. These individuals were not only sympathetic to Peron's fascist leanings but also believed they could contribute to Argentina's modernization efforts.

The Real Odessa: Smuggling the Nazis to Peron's Argentina

According to Uki Go?n's book, "The Real Odessa: Smuggling the Nazis to Peron's Argentina," the Peron government, in 1946, sent word through Cardinal Antonio Caggiano to a French counterpart that Argentina was willing to receive Nazi collaborators who were facing potential war crimes prosecution. This cooperation between the Argentine government and several Catholic Church figures facilitated the escape of many Nazi war criminals.

Jobs and Skills for Nazi War Criminals

Beyond the political and ideological motivations, Nazi war criminals found practical benefits in Argentina. President Peron, a ruthless dictator, recognized the value of these individuals' expertise and hired them to oversee and train his police forces and militaries. This collaboration helped Peron maintain his brutal military dictatorship and suppress opposition through brutal tactics during the "Dirty Wars" that followed the war.

The Impact on Argentina

The arrival of Nazi war criminals had a profound impact on Argentina's political and social landscape. While the country has come a long way since those tumultuous years, the legacy of these individuals is still felt today. Argentina has seen significant political shifts towards the left, with a strong anti-military sentiment evident in public demonstrations and protests.

For example, in 2003, an anti-war protest demonstration in Buenos Aires included the use of Soviet flags, vandalism, and heavy use of drugs and alcohol, highlighting the lingering grievances against the military regime. However, in recent years, Argentina has become a more stable and democratic nation, with a vibrant culture and a commitment to human rights. While the country still grapples with issues of corruption, it has also seen a significant reduction in the influence of the armed forces.

Conclusion

The relationship between Nazi Germany and Argentina was a complex nexus of political, economic, and ideological motivations. The establishment of "ratlines" and the hiring of Nazi war criminals by President Peron underscored the deep-rooted connections between these two nations. Although Argentina has moved away from the dark legacy of the past, the story of Nazi refugees in Argentina remains a significant chapter in the global narrative of World War II.