Colombia crisis 1948
 

Hi guys

Colombia 1948 is not my normal area of research, so I hope someone can help me, please. Is the following historically correct?

Following the assassination of the pro-communist opposition leader (by the CIA?) in April 1948, civil conflict erupted in Colombia. I believe the embryonic Colombian Air Force had US-provided P-38s, B-25s and B-26s but not experiened crews to fly them and therefore, with American help (CIA?), recruited mercenaries including US, Canadian and German pilots.

Did the communist side have any aircraft? If so, were there any clashes? If not, what were the mercenary pilots required to do? Ground attack?

Any assistance will be greatly appreciated.
Cheers
Brian

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

Brian
I doubt CIA was involved but since OPC had been not established yet, auspices of NSC or G-2 seem more likely. The early period of Cold War is a real mess. Internet search tools may help, but this will require some time and multiple actions. Sorry, I cannot help more, I have dealt with European operations only.

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

Brian:

And another thing: Historically the Colombian political, social & economic classes always seemed quick to resort to violence to resolve practically ANY issue they had with each other--one COULD say that violence was ingrained in the Culture as far back as when the region was controlled by Spain.

nickm

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

Thanks for your input Franek and Nick

Cheers
Brian

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

Brian,

You should have a look at this book by Dan Hagedorn:
http://www.abebooks.fr/servlet/BookD...%3D50%26y%3D15

Chris

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

Thanks for advising of the book - previously unknown to me.

However, all I wish to know is - was there any use of aircraft in the 1948 unrest in Colombia; and were merecenaries engaged by the government.

Information required to complete a paragraph!!

Cheers
Brian

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

I'm sorry, Brian. I had this book but don't have it any more.

Chris

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

1. Brian has exceeded their stored private messages quota and cannot accept further messages until they clear some space.

Brian

When trying to send you a private message the above text pops up and my e-mail to you fail.

Please send ME a private e-mail and I will fix what you need from Hagedorn's book

Cheers
Stig
PS: I especially like the wording Brian has exceeded their etc....:D

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

Hi Stig

Will do. Thanks.

Cheers
Brian

Re: Colombia crisis 1948
 

Brian,

The mentioned book covers a long period, so a schematic one (it contains a half-page text about the Civil War in Colombia, mentions only the P-47D's and AT-6 Texans).
I don't know, what do you need exactly but imho it would be the best if you would ask Jaime Escobar, he is the top researcher there. Drop me an e-mail, if your attempt will be usuccessful.