Rio de Janeiro
It was 13 January 1908 and the Great White Fleet had reached its second scheduled stop – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
This is a fantastic picture of the Great White Fleet entering Rio de Janeiro.
The reception of the Fleet in Rio completely made up for that received in Trinidad.
At seventy five miles out from Rio they received greetings and “Welcome American Fleet” over the telegraph.
At thirty miles they were met by three Brazilian warships firing a thirteen gun salute befitting a Vice-Admiral.
The Fleet then steamed single file into Batafoga Bay where the shores, hills and buildings were literally covered with people to view and greet them. As they dropped their anchors the crowds erupted with a mixture of applause, enthusiasm and interest.
Many of the spectators had waited more than two days at there location to get a good view.
This is an indicative picture of the warm but chaotic welcome received by the Fleet.
Within the harbour was the German cruiser SMS Bremen and it was fair to say the Germans were particularly anxious to greet the Americans.
This is a very cool picture of the SMS Bremen.
As cool as the British had been towards the Americans, the Germans were as warm.
Globally with the British siding with Japan in there recent alliance, the Germans felt their alliance must now be made with the Americans. It was clear to most that there would soon be a war between Britain and Germany. Given this situation Germany hoped to gain American favor and as an ally in any future war with England and Japan. Therefore the Captain of the SMS Bremen was very quick to come aboard the USS Connecticut to pay his respects to Admiral Evans.
A very spectacular shot of the Rio de Janeiro harbour
Another shot of the Rio harbour
That evening the Fleet rigged green and white lights on the ship to honor Brazil and Rio provided the fireworks for sailors onboard the ships. The next day hundred of sailors went ashore to explore the city.
The next instalment will cover how the Fleet's first night in Rio went.
Regards
Sean
