British Universities Film & Video Council

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Uncle Sam - the Good Neighbour

Series

Series Name
The March of Time 4th Year

Issue

Issue No.
11
Date Released
1939
Length of issue (in feet)
1656
Stories in this Issue:
  1. 1Uncle Sam - the Good Neighbour

Story

Story No. within this Issue
1 / 1
Summary
The March of Time synopsis: In this episode is portrayed in exclusive film material the present good neighbour policy of the United States. It shows the significance of reciprocal trade agreements in a world of increasing national rivalries and mistrust, and explains how America’s new foreign policy is being effected by a revitalised Foreign Service. Upon the shoulders of Secretary of State Cordell Hull, and his under-secretaries, rest, responsibilities involving the security of every United States citizens at home and abroad. In all the capital cities of the world may be found the symbols of the American Foreign Service, the flag and shield, which signify that on duty at that post is an officer commissioned to represent the citizens and government of the United States. In an exclusive interview with the March of Time Secretary Hull explains the aims of the Service saying: "To maintain peace and a freer flow of international trade is the cardinal principle of our foreign policy. To keep our relations with other countries on an even keel, to prevent crises from breaking out, to remove causes of friction before they have become serious: these are the constant objectives of the American Foreign Service." In the light of these aims, the film shows how the United States diplomatic representatives are counteracting fascism’s bid for power and influence in Central and South America. To these republics assurance has been given that their sovereignty will be respected - and if necessary defended. They are frankly told that the United States hopes to buy and sell more goods in their markets, and that its aims are to eliminate war from the Western Hemisphere by a mutual understanding among American republics.
Researcher Comments
This story was included in Vol.5 No.4 of the US edition.
Keywords
Foreign relations; Diplomacy
Written sources
Fielding, Raymond. The March of Time 1935-1951 (New York, 1978)   p236.
The March of Time Promotional Material   Publicity brochure, Used for synopsis
Credits:
Production Co.
Time Inc.

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