Abstract: This thesis examines how Brazil participated in World War II shoulder to shoulder with the Allies, and what this participation brought to the South American country. During the 1930s, when the relationship between Brazil and Germany was improving each year, and when it was assumed that Brazil would support Germany in case war broke out, Brazilian leaders convinced their country to support the Allied cause. Brazil's support of the United States allowed the U.S. Military to establish aerial bases in Brazil's Northeast region to facilitate an Allied connection with North Africa. Brazil's decision to send a Brazilian Expeditionary Force (BEF) to fight for Allied Forces in Italy was one of the most important decisions in Brazilian history. It was the first time that Brazil would take part in a war being staged outside South America. The BEF did its best to represent Brazil, and it eventually showed that Brazilian soldiers could fight as well as the best soldiers in the war. Brazilian participation in World War II is almost unheard of in countries outside South America, even in the United States. Nevertheless, this participation was important as it was responsible for several transformations in Brazil's national power. After the war, Brazil became the most powerful and wealthy country in South America. It also became an actor on the global stage. Overall, Brazil's participation in World War II was the event that transformed the country economically, politically, and militarily.
| Limitations: |
 APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE |
| Description: |
Master's thesis |
| Pages: |
94 |
| Report Date: |
15 DEC 2006 |
| Report Number: |
A458064 |
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