The Anschluss and its Aftermath

The Anschluss of 1938 represented a crucial turning point in pre-World War II European history, marking Nazi Germany's absorption of Austria. Prior to this, Austrian Nazis had attempted to seize power in 1934 with the assassination of Chancellor Dollfuss, but were thwarted by Italian intervention.

Highlight: Hitler's strategic manipulation began with appointing Seyss-Inquart as minister with police control, effectively establishing Nazi influence within the Austrian government.

Example: The plebiscite's result of 99% in favor of unification clearly demonstrated its fraudulent nature, as such unanimous support would be statistically impossible in a fair vote.

Definition: Lebensraum - The Nazi policy of territorial expansion to create "living space" for the German people.

Quote: "Hitler aimed to reunite German speakers and gain Lebensraum while destroying the treaty."

Vocabulary: Plebiscite - A direct vote by all eligible members of an electorate on an important public question.

The international reaction varied significantly: Britain acquiesced to the annexation, France was distracted by internal political challenges, and Czechoslovakia feared they would be Hitler's next target. The successful Anschluss emboldened Nazi Germany and demonstrated the weakness of international opposition to Hitler's expansionist policies.