Summary
The 1938 Anschluss with Austria was a key event where Hitler annexed Austria, demonstrating the failure of collective security and increasing tensions in Europe.
- Anschluss — Union or annexation
Example: The union of Austria with Nazi Germany in 1938. - Lebensraum — Living space
Example: Hitler's policy to expand German territory for more resources. - Appeasement — Policy of concessions to avoid war
Example: Britain's approach to Hitler's expansionist policies. - Greater Germany — Nazi vision of expanded German state
Example: The aim to unite all German-speaking peoples under one nation.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Anschluss
- Lebensraum
- Appeasement
- Greater Germany
Common Confusions
- Believing Austria willingly joined Germany without pressure
- Thinking the League of Nations took action against the Anschluss
Typical Exam Questions
- What was the Anschluss?
The union of Austria with Nazi Germany in 1938. - How did the international community respond to the Anschluss?
Britain and France did not take action, and the League of Nations remained silent. - Why was the Anschluss significant for Hitler's foreign policy?
It demonstrated that aggressive expansion would go unopposed, encouraging further actions.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the events leading to the Anschluss
- The impact of the Anschluss on international relations
- The role of appeasement in encouraging Hitler's aggression