Chile

During World War II, Chile presented something of a paradox among South American nations. Although it was the most liberal of those states and was, in spirit, strongly pro-Allied, Chile, while endorsing the anti-Axis resolutions of the Rio Conference, initially refused to sever diplomatic relations with the Axis countries. As a result, Lend- Lease Act agreements were never concluded between the United States and Chile, and the Chilean government found itself under continual pressure to act against the German agents who freely operated in the country, reporting on Allied shipping through the region. It was not until January 20, 1943, that the Chilean Senate agreed to sever relations with the principal Axis powers, but the senate stood fast in its refusal to declare war on Germany. Chile did declare against Japan on February 12, 1945, and was a signatory to the United Nations Declaration.