Page:Linking the Nations of the Western Hemisphere.pdf/1

By SANTOS-DUMONT
Honorary President Pan-American Aeronautic Federation

DIFFICULT geographical and economic conditions in the Continent of South America, which have made railroads in many regions impossible, and have militated against adequate transportation and communication, have also pre-
vented that closer union of the States of the Western Hemis-
phere, which has been so desirable. Important cities, located at high altitudes, have been isolated by the lack of railroads and means of efficient communication. Some, indeed, seem practically out of touch with modern civilization. The long and tedious distance from the United States, and the exten-
sive period of time required to cover the distance by steam-ship, has retarded that closer alliance of the South American countries with the United States, which has been so desirable, has been retarded. To people living in the United States, Brazil, Argentina and the other countries of South America seem inaccessible and remote. To us who have lived in South America, New York seems even more distant than Paris. A gulf of time and distance has separated us. It has impeded the development of profitable business relations.

European War Makes Development of Closer Relations
Between the Two Continents Most Important.

With the trade of the world affected by the European War, the development of commerce between the two continents become of more urgent importance.

The countries of this hemisphere are of one family. Today they are like the members of a family who live in different houses, in a state of estrangement. For the greater develop-
ment and strength of the countries of this hemisphere a closer association, a closer interchange of views and better facilities for communication and trading relations are vitally necessary. Who knows when some European power may menace an American State? Who can tell if, in the aftermath of the present European War, some power may not reach out to