What was the significance of the Anschluss with Austria in 1938?

The Anschluss with Austria in 1938 was significant as it marked Nazi Germany's first major territorial expansion.

The Anschluss, meaning "union" in German, was the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany on 12 March 1938. This event was a crucial step in Adolf Hitler's plan to create a Greater German Reich, uniting all German-speaking peoples under one nation. The move was also a clear violation of the Treaty of Versailles and the Treaty of St. Germain, which had explicitly forbidden the unification of Austria and Germany after World War I.

The significance of the Anschluss can be analysed from several perspectives. Politically, it demonstrated the weakness of the international community, particularly Britain and France, in standing up to Hitler's aggressive expansionist policies. Their policy of appeasement, hoping to avoid another war by conceding to some of Hitler's demands, emboldened him to pursue further territorial gains. The lack of immediate and strong opposition from other European powers signalled to Hitler that he could continue his expansionist agenda with little fear of reprisal.

Economically, the Anschluss was beneficial for Germany. Austria's resources, including its gold reserves and industrial capacity, were now at Hitler's disposal. This bolstered the German economy and military capabilities, further strengthening the Nazi regime. Additionally, the annexation provided a strategic advantage, giving Germany a more secure southern border and easier access to the Balkans.

Socially and culturally, the Anschluss was significant for the Austrian population. Many Austrians welcomed the unification with Germany, influenced by a shared language, culture, and the promise of economic stability. However, for others, particularly Jews and political opponents, it marked the beginning of severe persecution. The Nazi regime quickly implemented its anti-Semitic policies in Austria, leading to widespread discrimination, violence, and the eventual deportation of Austrian Jews to concentration camps.

In summary, the Anschluss with Austria in 1938 was a pivotal event that not only expanded Nazi Germany's territory but also highlighted the failures of international diplomacy, bolstered Germany's economy and military, and had profound social consequences for the Austrian people.