Hitler's Motive for Anschluss with Austria

Hitler's desire to achieve Anschluss, the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany, stemmed from a combination of personal, political, and strategic reasons. One of the key factors driving Hitler's push for Anschluss was his Austrian heritage. Born in Austria, Hitler often identified himself as an Austrian and felt a strong connection to his homeland. He believed that unifying Austria with Germany would not only fulfill a long-standing nationalist aspiration but also solidify his personal and political legacy.

From a broader perspective, the move for Anschluss was a direct challenge to the Treaty of Versailles, the peace settlement that ended World War I. The treaty explicitly forbade any union between Germany and Austria, as it sought to restrict German power and prevent any future aggression. By pursuing Anschluss, Hitler aimed to undermine the legitimacy of the treaty and assert Germany's right to self-determination.

Furthermore, the annexation of Austria was a crucial step in expanding the territorial boundaries of the Third Reich. It provided Germany with access to valuable resources, industrial capacity, and strategic positioning, strengthening its economic and military capabilities. Additionally, incorporating Austria into the Reich was seen as a precursor to further territorial claims in other regions with significant German populations, such as Czechoslovakia and Poland. By demonstrating his ability to successfully annex Austria, Hitler sought to legitimize his territorial ambitions elsewhere in Europe.

Strategically, Anschluss with Austria allowed Germany to extend its border with Czechoslovakia, putting increased pressure on the country and setting the stage for future territorial claims in the region. This move also served as a test of the resolve of Western powers, particularly Britain and France, who were pursuing a policy of appeasement towards Nazi Germany. By challenging the status quo and pushing for Anschluss, Hitler sought to gauge the international response and assess the willingness of Western powers to confront him.

In conclusion, Hitler's desire to achieve Anschluss with Austria was driven by a complex interplay of personal motivations, nationalist aspirations, strategic considerations, and a desire to challenge the post-World War I order. The annexation of Austria marked a significant turning point in Hitler's aggressive expansionist policies and set the stage for further territorial conquests in Europe.