The following article dealing with the significance of Herbert Hoover's visit to South and Central America was written especially for the Crimson by C. H. Haring '07, Professor of Latin American History and Economics.

It was a happy inspiration of Mr. Hoover to make this tour of the Latin American republics so immediately after his choice by the people of the United States to be their president. It is a courtesy visit, amply justified by the rapidly increasing importance of these countries in international trade and politics, and nearly everywhere the cordial spirit with which he comes to them will be honestly reciprocated. Policy would dictate as much, even if the Latin American were not always ready to meet us more than half-way.

But it can be little more than a courtesy visit. Mr. Hoover is traveling too rapidly to have time really to become acquainted with men and things along the way. Nor need we look for immediate political or economic results, except in so far as the visit influences Mr. Hoover's policy and that of his government after March 4 next. The development of American trade depends largely, if not solely, upon our ability to offer better goods at better prices. And improved political relations depend upon the policy of our Department of State in Caribbean America, and upon the way our Congress manipulates the American tariff.

The Latin American has no illusions in such matters. He may be flattered by Mr. Hoover's visit. He will welcome the opportunity of obtaining a personal impression of so important a national and international figure. But he will wait calmly for the results as reflected in American policy. And the visit should be productive of results in closer and more cordial inter-American relationships.