832.24/285: Telegram
The Chargé in Brazil (Burdett) to the Secretary of State
[Received 12:55 p.m.]
651. For the Under Secretary. Reference Embassy’s telegram 650, December 10, 11 a.m. Aranha is very anxious about the Siqueira Campos [Page 651] but deems it wise to show a conciliatory attitude toward the British demands. On the other hand the Army is indignant and the Generals go about denouncing the British. The Embassy’s contacts in the Army report a decided shift against England in the sympathy of the officers. There is some doubt as to whether public opinion is behind the Army, but there is much comment among all classes, all of it critical of the British. The Germans, of course, are making the most of the opportunity afforded by this unfortunate situation.
General Goes Monteiro has several times said that Brazil should break off relations with Great Britain.
In a weekend speech President Vargas, while not directly naming Great Britain, obviously referred to its policy toward Brazil and said “violation of our rights will provoke retaliation”.
The anti-British press campaign perfectly controlled by the anti-British director of the D. I. P.,78 has been calmer during the past few days. Violently worded circulars obviously German inspired are being circulated in Rio de Janeiro.
- Departmento Nacional de Imprensa e Propaganda (National Department of Press and Propaganda).↩