Germany Remilitarized the Rhineland

Definition

The remilitarization of the Rhineland occurred in March 1936 when Nazi Germany violated the Treaty of Versailles by sending troops into the demilitarized zone along the Rhine River. This action marked a significant turning point in European relations, showcasing Germany's defiance against post-World War I treaties and escalating tensions in Europe during the interwar period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The remilitarization of the Rhineland was carried out without any resistance from France or Britain, which encouraged further German aggression.
2. This act was a direct violation of both the Treaty of Versailles and the Locarno Treaties, which guaranteed the demilitarization of the Rhineland.
3. The remilitarization allowed Germany to strengthen its defensive position along the western border and was seen as a step toward further territorial expansion.
4. Hitler justified the remilitarization by claiming that Germany needed to protect itself from perceived threats, using nationalist rhetoric to gain public support.
5. The remilitarization is often viewed as a key moment that led to the broader conflicts of World War II, demonstrating the failure of European powers to curb German militarism.

Review Questions

• How did the remilitarization of the Rhineland affect European relations in the lead-up to World War II?
  • The remilitarization of the Rhineland significantly strained European relations by highlighting the weakness of the post-World War I treaties, particularly the Treaty of Versailles. The lack of response from France and Britain not only emboldened Hitler but also signaled to other nations that aggressive actions could be taken without fear of reprisal. This situation contributed to a growing sense of instability in Europe and set a dangerous precedent for further German expansion.
• Evaluate the consequences of Germany's actions in remilitarizing the Rhineland for France and Britain.
  • Germany's remilitarization of the Rhineland had profound consequences for both France and Britain. For France, it undermined national security and raised concerns about their ability to defend against future German aggression. Meanwhile, Britain faced a dilemma regarding its policy of appeasement; their inaction during this crisis demonstrated a failure to confront Hitler early on, ultimately leading to more aggressive actions from Germany. This period marked a turning point where both countries had to reconsider their strategies in dealing with Nazi Germany.
• Analyze how the remilitarization of the Rhineland reflects broader themes of nationalism and militarism in Europe during the interwar period.
  • The remilitarization of the Rhineland is emblematic of the rising nationalism and militarism that characterized Europe during the interwar period. Hitler's defiance against international treaties resonated with nationalist sentiments within Germany, portraying his actions as necessary for national pride and security. Additionally, this event illustrated how militarism was being re-established in a post-World War I context, challenging existing power structures. The remilitarization set into motion a series of events that would contribute to global conflict, as it showcased how aggressive nationalism could undermine diplomatic efforts for peace.

Related terms

Treaty of Versailles:

The peace treaty that officially ended World War I, imposing heavy reparations and military restrictions on Germany.

Nazi Germany:

The period of German history from 1933 to 1945 when Adolf Hitler and the National Socialist German Workers' Party controlled the government, promoting aggressive nationalism and militarism.

Appeasement:

The diplomatic policy aimed at preventing war by making concessions to an aggressive power, notably practiced by Britain and France towards Nazi Germany in the 1930s.