Hitlers invasion of Austria

Lebensraum Begins

Dec 1, 1934

In 1934, Hitler attempts to take Austria and is stopped by Mussolini, because: In 1934, Italy made an agreement with Austria that it would protect Austria from outside aggression. The Italian dictator, Mussolini, honoured the agreement and moved Italian troops to the Austrian border to put Hitler off invading.

Matthew

Period: Dec 1, 1934 to Mar 14, 1938

Hitler met with the Austrian leader Schuschnigg to discuss the agreement made (1936)

Dec 1, 1936

This pact recognised the independence of Austria but the price was that Austria's foreign policy had to be consistent with Germany's. The agreement also allowed Nazis to hold official posts in Austria. Schuschnigg hoped this would appease Hitler. He was wrong.

Hitler demands changes to Austrian government

Jan 1, 1938

In 1938 Schuschnigg visited Hitler at his summer retreat at Berchtesgaden, near the Austrian border. Hitler demanded that Nazis be given key government posts in Austria. Schuschnigg compromised and the Nazi member, Seyss-Inquart, was made Minister of the Interior

Hitlers must ensure the Austrian leader will implement his plans

Mar 9, 1938

Unfortunately on the 9 March 1938, in a desperate act, Schuschnigg announced a referendum whereby the Austrian people would decide for themselves if they wanted to be a part of Hitler's Germany. Hitler was furious. If the Austrians voted against joining Germany his excuse for invasion would be ruined

Threaten Austria with invasion if vote is not cancelled

Mar 9, 1938

Hitler told his generals to prepare for the invasion of Austria. He ordered Schuschnigg to call off the referendum. Knowing he would receive no help from Italy, and that France and Britain would not interfere in Hitler's plans, Schuschnigg conceded. He called off the referendum and resigned

Austrian leader resigns

Mar 10, 1938

A Nazi is given the job of leader of Austria. He is called Seyss Inquart. Hitler tells him to ‘invite’ the Germans into Austria to restore law and order on the 10th of March

German troops march into Austria

Mar 12, 1938

Hitler now had control of Austria. A month later, Hitler held a rigged referendum. The results showed that the Austrian people approved of German control of their country. This plebiscite (vote) shows that 99.75% of Austrians are happy with Anschluss

Britain, France and Italy's Reaction

Mar 13, 1938

Britain-Criticised methods and called for withdrawal – they didnt back up Hitlers actions
Believed that Anschluss was inevitable as it closed links with Germany
Austrians in favour – what’s the problem
Italy was consulted & agreed not to interfere
France: government collapsed on 10th March so would need GB & Italy’s help to act