Anschluss

Definition

Anschluss refers to the political union of Austria and Germany, which was officially achieved in 1938. This event is significant because it marked a critical point in the rise of Nazi Germany and its expansionist policies, representing both the fulfillment of long-held nationalist ambitions and a direct challenge to the post-World War I settlement that sought to limit German power in Europe. The incorporation of Austria was seen as a precursor to further aggression and territorial expansion by Adolf Hitler.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Anschluss was largely supported by the Austrian population, many of whom identified as ethnically German and favored unification with Germany.
2. The annexation was achieved without military conflict, as the Austrian government did not resist Hitler's demands due to pressure and intimidation.
3. Anschluss was a violation of the Treaty of Versailles, which prohibited the union of Austria and Germany, highlighting the failures of the post-World War I international order.
4. Following Anschluss, anti-Jewish measures were quickly implemented in Austria as part of the broader Nazi agenda across German-occupied territories.
5. The event significantly strengthened Hitler's position within Germany and emboldened his ambitions for further territorial expansion in Europe.

Review Questions

• How did the Anschluss impact the political landscape in Europe during the interwar period?
  • The Anschluss had a profound impact on the political landscape in Europe during the interwar period by signaling the resurgence of aggressive nationalism and revisionist policies in Germany. It undermined the post-World War I order established by the Treaty of Versailles, which sought to contain German expansionism. This event heightened tensions among European nations and foreshadowed further aggressive actions by Hitler, setting the stage for World War II.
• Evaluate how the Anschluss reflected broader themes of nationalism and revisionism in Europe during the 1930s.
  • The Anschluss reflected broader themes of nationalism and revisionism by illustrating how ethnic identity and national aspirations could lead to significant geopolitical changes. The unification of Austria with Germany was driven by a nationalist sentiment among many Austrians who identified with their Germanic roots. This event also represented a direct challenge to the post-war international order established by powers that sought to contain German ambitions, showcasing how revisionist movements gained momentum during the decade.
• Analyze the consequences of the Anschluss for Austria and its people in relation to Nazi ideology and policies.
  • The consequences of the Anschluss for Austria were significant as it led to immediate integration into Nazi Germany's political framework. Austrians experienced a rapid implementation of Nazi ideology, including anti-Semitic laws that targeted Jewish populations. The incorporation into Nazi Germany also meant that many Austrians had to navigate a new socio-political reality where dissent was crushed, and loyalty to Hitler was mandated. This period fundamentally altered Austria's identity and governance as it became part of a larger totalitarian regime.

Related terms

Treaty of Versailles: The 1919 treaty that formally ended World War I, imposing heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany, which fueled resentment and nationalist sentiments leading up to World War II.

Nazi Party: A far-right political party led by Adolf Hitler that rose to power in Germany in the early 1930s, advocating for extreme nationalism, anti-Semitism, and expansionism.

Lebensraum: A Nazi policy aimed at acquiring 'living space' for the German people, justifying territorial expansion into Eastern Europe, particularly during World War II.