Austria's Annexation to Germany in 1938

Name: Austria's Annexation to Germany in 1938
Start: 1889-04-10
Location: Unspecified

Overview of Austria's Annexation to Germany

On March 12, 1938, Austria was officially annexed into Nazi Germany in a political event known as the Anschluss. This significant historical event marked the culmination of long-standing tensions between the two nations, paving the way for further German expansion in Europe. The annexation was celebrated by many in Austria, who saw it as a return to a perceived national identity, but it was also met with international concern over Adolf Hitler’s growing power.

The Historical Context of the Anschluss

Post World War I, the Treaty of Versailles and the Treaty of Saint-Germain imposed significant restrictions on Austria, leading to economic difficulties and a national identity crisis. Many Austrians, especially those who identified as Germans, desired unification with Germany. Hitler, an Austrian by birth, capitalized on this sentiment, promoting a vision of a Greater Germany.

The Political Maneuvering Leading Up to the Event

In the lead-up to the Anschluss, various political pressures and Nazi propaganda intensified within Austria. The Austrian Chancellor, Kurt Schuschnigg, attempted to stave off Nazi influence by organizing a referendum. However, before it could take place, Schuschnigg was ousted, and German troops were sent into Austria. On the same day, the annexation was announced, dramatically illustrating the power dynamics at play.

The Consequences of the Annexation

The unification of Austria and Germany had wide-ranging consequences both for the citizens of Austria and for the broader European continent. It represented a shift in power balance and set the stage for the Nazi regime’s eventual aggression during World War II.

Impact on Austrian Society and Politics

Once incorporated into Germany, Austria experienced the full effects of Nazi ideology, including the implementation of oppressive policies targeted at Jews and political dissidents. Many Austrians were swept into the tide of nationalism, while others faced persecution and hardship under the new regime.

The International Response

The Anschluss was largely met with international criticism. However, it underscored the European powers’ underestimation of Hitler’s ambitions, as many chose not to intervene militarily. This reluctance to act would haunt Europe as tensions rose towards World War II.

Fun Fact

Historical Paradox of Austrian National Identity

Interestingly, while many Austrians welcomed the Anschluss, post-war sentiment shifted dramatically. After WWII, a significant aspect of Austrian national identity became the denial of any responsibility for Nazi crimes, despite having been willingly annexed.