The Incorporation of Saar into Germany (1935)

The Historical Context of the Saar Plebiscite

The Saar region, rich in coal resources and located between France and Germany, was a contentious area following World War I. The Treaty of Versailles (1919) dictated that Saar would be governed by the League of Nations for 15 years, allowing a plebiscite at the end to determine its fate. In 1935, the people of Saar faced a significant decision that would change their national affiliation forever.

The 1935 Plebiscite in Saar

On January 13, 1935, the Saar population voted in a plebiscite to decide whether they wanted to remain under League of Nations administration or return to German governance. With a staggering 90.3% of the voters opting for reunification with Germany, the decision showcased a dramatic shift in public sentiment, heavily influenced by the rising tide of nationalism in Germany under Adolf Hitler.

The Impact of the Vote on German Nationalism

The vote was not merely a local event; it served as a significant propaganda victory for the Nazi regime. The incorporation of Saar into Germany was portrayed as the revival of the German nation and a step towards regaining territories lost after World War I. This event continued to fuel the ambitions of Hitler, who aimed for the expansion of Germany beyond its borders.

Aftermath and Reactions

The incorporation of Saar into Germany had immediate and far-reaching consequences, with reactions from various international stakeholders. While Germany celebrated the plebiscite as a restoration of ethnic unity, other nations, particularly France, remained cautious of this growing German influence.

International Reactions to the Saar Incorporation

France was particularly unsettled by the return of Saar to German control. The loss represented not only a strategic disadvantage but also heightened fears regarding Hitler’s ambitions in Europe. The League of Nations, tasked with maintaining peace, found itself increasingly powerless in the face of such nationalist movements.

The Long-Term Consequences for Europe

The incorporation of Saar paved the way for further aggressive expansions by Nazi Germany, culminating in World War II. The plebiscite's outcome was not just a local affair; it was a precursor to future conflicts that would engulf Europe, resulting in unimaginable destruction and loss of life.

Fun Fact

Saar’s Historical Significance

Interestingly, Saar had been administered separately from Germany and France for over 15 years, making the 1935 plebiscite a unique event in shaping modern European borders, symbolizing the changing tides of nationalism.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on the Saar Plebiscite

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this topic, consider reading The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich by William L. Shirer or Germany’s War: A Nation Under Arms, 1939-1945 by John F. C. McGowan. These works provide valuable insights into the politics surrounding the Saar region and its effects on European history.