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The Anschluss 1938
Key Term: Anschluss – German word meaning “union” or “connection.” Refers to Germany’s annexation of Austria in March 1938.
Background:
  • Treaty of Versailles (1919) forbade Anschluss between Germany and Austria.
  • Many Austrians were ethnically German and supported unification.
  • Hitler was Austrian-born and strongly believed in the unification of all German-speaking peoples.
  • A failed attempt had been made earlier in 1934, but Mussolini had stopped it.
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Timeline
1934
  • First failed attempt at Anschluss; Mussolini moves Italian troops to stop Hitler.
1936
  • Hitler and Mussolini form the Rome-Berlin Axis, becoming allies.
March 1938
  • Hitler pressures Austrian Chancellor Schuschnigg to agree to union.
  • Schuschnigg plans a plebiscite (vote) Hitler fears losing.
11 March 1938
  • Hitler sends in the German army to ‘restore order’. No resistance.
12 March 1938
  • German troops enter Austria. Anschluss declared.
10 April 1938
  • Rigged referendum held, 99.75% vote in favour ofAnschluss.
Why did Hitler want Anschluss?
  • Unite all German-speaking people (pan-Germanism).
  • Austria had natural resources (iron and gold).
  • Undermine Versailles Treaty.
  • Strengthen Germany’s position in Europe.
International Reaction

  • Britain & France did nothing – policy of appeasement.
  • Many in Britain believed Germany was rightfully reclaiming German people.
  • No military action taken – League of Nations did not intervene.
Consequences of Anschluss:

  • Germany’s borders extended – now bordered Czechoslovakia.
  • Hitler gained confidence.
  • Mussolini remained supportive – no opposition from Italy.
  • Appeasement continued.
  • Czechoslovakia became Hitler’s next target (Sudetenland).