Evaluate how hitlers policy of Anschluss drove his actions prior to world war ll

Answer 1

Hitler's policy of Anschluss, which aimed at the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany, drove his actions prior to World War II in several important ways.

First and foremost, Hitler's desire for Anschluss was driven by his ideological belief in the concept of pan-Germanism, which called for the unification of all German-speaking peoples into a single nation-state. This belief was a central tenet of Nazi ideology and one that Hitler was determined to achieve at any cost.

The failure of Anschluss would have been a major blow to Hitler's credibility and prestige both within Germany and internationally. It was essential for him to show the world that he was capable of achieving his objectives and that he was not to be underestimated.

Furthermore, the annexation of Austria was seen as a crucial step towards achieving Hitler's broader geopolitical goals. By bringing Austria into the fold, Hitler would be able to consolidate his power in Central Europe and strengthen Germany's position as a dominant force on the continent.

The policy of Anschluss also played a significant role in shaping Hitler's foreign policy and military strategy in the years leading up to World War II. The successful annexation of Austria emboldened Hitler and encouraged him to pursue further territorial expansion, leading ultimately to the invasions of Czechoslovakia and Poland.

In conclusion, Hitler's policy of Anschluss was a driving force behind his actions prior to World War II, shaping his ideological beliefs, geopolitical ambitions, and military strategy. The successful annexation of Austria was a key milestone on the path to war and demonstrated Hitler's determination to achieve his objectives at any cost.