Why Does the Chilean Army Look German or Prussian?

The question of why the Chilean Army looks German or Prussian has puzzled many observers. However, a detailed look into the historical and strategic reasons behind this resemblance reveals a complex tapestry of military training and adoption that predates the rise of Nazi Germany.

The Historical Context

Starting from the late 19th century, the Chilean Army embarked on a journey to modernize and professionalize its ranks. This effort was heavily influenced by the model of training and equipment of the German and Prussian armies. In 1885, Captain Emil Krner of the German Imperial Army was hired to lead the Chilean army in training and modernization efforts. After retiring in 1910, he left behind a well-equipped force and a highly trained officer corps, setting standards for the region.

Adoption of Prussian Models

The adoption of Prussian models was not unique to Chile. The American Revolutionary War also saw the transformation of a ragtag army into an organized force with the help of Friedrich Wilhelm Rudolf Gerhard August Freiherr von Steub, a Prussian officer. Interestingly, von Steub's training manual is still considered a cornerstone for modern military education in the United States.

The Modern Chilean Army Uniform and Ceremonial Dress

Today, the Chilean Army's uniform and dress code have evolved. Ceremonial parades and events often feature parading in uniforms inspired by the Prussian style, particularly the Pickelhaube helmet and other elements of early 20th-century German army attire. However, most active military operations are carried out in working uniforms that bear more resemblance to American or British styles.

Post-World War II Influences

Following World War II, Chile did not see a significant influx of German military influence. Instead, Chancellor Adolf Hitler's attempts to build influence in Chile did not materialize before his death. Thus, the German influence in the Chilean military remains a product of historical tradition rather than modern German involvement.

The Ceremonial vs. Practical Uniforms

The Chilean Army's ceremonial dress often includes a grey uniform color, which is slightly different from the field grey of Nazi Germany. However, for some ceremonial purposes, the navy blue is used. For instance, the Stahlhelm (steel helmet) is used for active service, while the Pickelhaube (spiked helmet) is reserved for ceremonial roles. This distinction highlights the difference between ceremonial presentation and practical uniform usage.

Training and Naval Influence

The German influence extended beyond the land forces. When Chile built its army, it hired advisors from Prussia, leading to a strong resemblance between the Chilean and Prussian armies. The Chilean Navy, on the other hand, was influenced by British advisors, resulting in a distinctly different naval tradition.

Conclusion

The Chilean Army's resemblance to the German and Prussian models is a reflection of historical military traditions and professionalization efforts. The adoption of Prussian models during the 19th century and early 20th century laid the foundation for a well-trained and modernized force, distinct from the German efforts during the Nazi era.