In the early 1940s, tensions were high as Nazi influence crept its way around the world. That is when the CIAA or Coordinator of Inter-American Affairs created an initiative called the Good Neighbor Program. They essentially wanted the Hollywood Elite to infuse Latin American themes into their films, creating a feeling of goodwill between the two countries. So in 1941, they approached one of the most prominent film makers of that time, Walt Disney.
Excited by the notion of research for future projects, and in desperate need of a vacation, Walt agreed. In August of 1941, Walt, Lilian, and 15 hand selected studio employees (& 1 employee spouse) took flight for Rio de Janeiro!
Ready for adventure, the team, nicknamed “El Grupo” from a hotel bellhop, dived right into their research. Even though Walt was considered a Cultural Ambassador, he stated, “I set up a shop. Never went near the embassy. Didn’t go around the usual haunts of the goodwill people. I went right in.”
The group of 18 Disney representatives did not always stick together. Many of the animators focused on the local culture while creating concept art. Walt on the other hand was busy attending performances, meeting dignitaries, artists, reporters, filmmakers and more. Sadly during this time, Walt learned that his father Elias Disney had passed away. Required to fulfill his contract with the American Government, he had to continue the tour.
Disney’s ‘El Grupo’ spent a total of two months on their goodwill tour. Together they traveled through Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, and Chile.
The tour was counted a great success! Not only was goodwill relations between North America and Latin America on the upswing, Disney’s group found inspiration for their future films, Saludos Amigos and The Three Caballeros, as well as a documentary called Walt and El Grupo.
The films introduced José Carioca and Panchito Pistoles, two beloved characters seen today at Mexico’s Pavilion Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros located in Epcot. In a later interview about the films Walt stated, “It was one of those things that they (the government) thought Disney needed the subsidy, but you know, fortunately that little thing went out and it did a heck of a business, and the United States Government didn’t have to put up one nickel.”
To see more from Disney’s Goodwill Tour, check out these photographs from LIFE photographer, Hart Preston, who documented ten weeks with the group.
You can also find the documentary Walt & El Grupo on Disney+.
