Anschluss is a German word that describes the annexation of Austria by Nazi Germany in 1938 This event marked the first step in Nazi Germany’s attempt to form a Greater German Empire including Nazi-occupied territiss in Europe and beyond. The event was made possible through the Munich Agreement and was publicly announced on March 12, 1938.
The Anschluss had a number of consequences for the world, both during and after World War II. Here are five of the most significant examples:
1. Expansion of Nazi Control: The Anschluss allowed Nazi Germany to expand its control and influence over Austria, the first step in their plan to form a Greater German Empire. Before the Anschluss, Austria was a largely independent nation. The annexation allowed Nazi Germany to extend its influence over the country and to implement its policies and ideology, resulting in more repression and persecution of minority groups.
2. Forced Migration: The Anschluss also caused a large number of Austrian Jews to be forced to flee the country. Many of these Jews were sent to concentration camps, while others were able to escape the Nazi regime. This was one of the largest forced migration events in European history and had a lasting impact on the region.
3. Loss of Sovereignty: The Anschluss also resulted in Austria losing its autonomy and becoming a puppet state of Nazi Germany. This meant that the Austrian government was forced to comply with the wishes of the Nazi regime, which often included regulations that were oppressive or unjust.
4. Economic Decline: The Anschluss also had an economic impact on Austria. After the annexation, the country's economy suffered from the lack of foreign investment, high taxes and other restrictions. This resulted in a decline in standards of living for many Austrians.
5. Influence on Post-War Europe: The Anschluss was one of the primary catalysts of World War II, and its effects were far-reaching. After the war, the victorious Powers implemented a policy of reparations and restitution to Austria. This had a lasting effect on the country and on post-war Europe as a whole.
The Anschluss was a major event in world history, one that had lasting consequences both during and after World War II. It was an example of Nazi expansionism, which had a significant impact on Europe and the world.