Table of Contents
Adolf Hitler’s foreign policy was a crucial factor in the events leading up to World War II. His aggressive aims to expand German territory and overturn the post-World War I peace settlements set the stage for global conflict.
Origins of Hitler’s Foreign Policy
Hitler’s foreign policy was rooted in his ideology of Lebensraum, or “living space,” which aimed to expand Germany eastward. He also sought to revise the Treaty of Versailles, which he viewed as unjust and humiliating.
Key Objectives of Hitler’s Foreign Policy
- Reclaim lost territories and restore Germany’s power.
- Expand eastward into Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union.
- Undermine the post-World War I international order.
- Secure alliances and eliminate perceived enemies.
The Path to War
Hitler’s aggressive policies included rearmament, the remilitarization of the Rhineland, and the Anschluss with Austria. These actions violated the Treaty of Versailles but were met with minimal resistance from other European powers.
The Anschluss of Austria
In 1938, Hitler orchestrated the annexation of Austria, known as the Anschluss. He claimed it was a unification of German-speaking peoples and aimed to unite all Germans under one Reich.
The Anschluss was achieved without military conflict, largely due to diplomatic pressure and the lack of intervention by Britain and France. This annexation significantly expanded Germany’s territory and resources.
International Response and Consequences
The annexation of Austria marked a turning point, signaling Germany’s willingness to defy international agreements. The lack of decisive action by Britain and France emboldened Hitler further.
This event set the stage for subsequent aggressive moves, including the Sudetenland crisis and the invasion of Poland, ultimately leading to the outbreak of World War II.
Conclusion
Hitler’s foreign policy was characterized by expansionism and defiance of international norms. The annexation of Austria exemplifies his strategy to achieve territorial gains without immediate resistance, ultimately contributing to the outbreak of a global conflict.