key term - Austria

Definition

Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, particularly during the early 20th century. As a major player in European politics, Austria's role in the events leading up to World War II was heavily influenced by its strategic location and its relationship with neighboring countries, especially Germany.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Austria's annexation by Nazi Germany in 1938 was met with little resistance from the Austrian population, as many were supportive of Hitler's regime.
2. The Treaty of Saint-Germain drastically reduced Austria's territory and population, resulting in significant economic challenges and political instability.
3. Before World War II, Austria was seen as a buffer state between Germany and Eastern Europe, which made its annexation particularly alarming to other European powers.
4. Austrian leaders, including Chancellor Kurt Schuschnigg, attempted to maintain independence but faced increasing pressure from Nazi Germany leading up to the Anschluss.
5. Following World War I and the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Austria struggled with identity issues as it sought to redefine itself amidst nationalist movements and economic hardship.

Review Questions

• How did the political atmosphere in Austria contribute to its annexation by Nazi Germany?
  • The political atmosphere in Austria leading up to the Anschluss was characterized by economic difficulties, political instability, and rising pro-Nazi sentiment among segments of the population. Many Austrians felt a sense of cultural affinity with Germany, which made them more susceptible to Nazi propaganda. The weak Austrian government struggled to assert control against increasing pressure from Adolf Hitler's regime, ultimately leading to a peaceful annexation that many Austrians viewed favorably at the time.
• Evaluate the impact of the Treaty of Saint-Germain on Austria's geopolitical landscape after World War I.
  • The Treaty of Saint-Germain had profound effects on Austria's geopolitical landscape after World War I, as it led to significant territorial losses and transformed Austria into a smaller nation-state. This loss not only diminished its influence in Central Europe but also resulted in economic turmoil and social unrest. The treaty fostered resentment among Austrians who felt their national identity was undermined, setting the stage for nationalist movements that would later affect Austria's political decisions leading up to World War II.
• Analyze how Austria’s historical context shaped its responses to external pressures from Germany before World War II.
  • Austria's historical context, particularly its past as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the subsequent trauma of World War I, significantly shaped its responses to external pressures from Germany. The dissolution of the empire left Austria grappling with issues of national identity and political legitimacy. Faced with economic hardship and a desire for stability, many Austrians became receptive to German unification ideas presented by Hitler. This resulted in a complex interplay of fear, nationalism, and opportunism that ultimately led to the annexation of Austria, illustrating how historical legacies can influence contemporary political dynamics.

Related terms

Anschluss:

The annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany in March 1938, which was a significant step in Hitler's expansionist policies.

Treaty of Saint-Germain: The 1919 treaty that formally dissolved the Austro-Hungarian Empire after World War I, leading to significant territorial losses for Austria and the establishment of new national borders.

Austro-Hungarian Empire:

A multi-ethnic empire that existed from 1867 to 1918, which included Austria and played a crucial role in the geopolitical tensions that contributed to World War I.