IB History German Challenges to the Post-war Settlements Notes

Hitler's Challenges to the Post-War Order

1. Between 1933 and 1938, Hitler systematically dismantled the post-war settlement through a series of escalating challenges. Each success emboldened him further and demonstrated that Britain and France would not enforce Versailles.
2. Historians debate whether Hitler followed a master plan (Stufenplan) laid out in Mein Kampf, or was an opportunist who exploited situations as they arose. The evidence suggests elements of both: clear ideological goals pursued through flexible, opportunistic tactics.

Withdrawal from the League and Disarmament Conference (October 1933)

1. Under Stresemann, Germany had joined the League of Nations (1926) and participated in the Geneva Disarmament Conference (1932-1934). Germany demanded military equality: either other nations disarm to Germany's level, or Germany be allowed to rearm.
2. France refused, fearing any German rearmament. Britain proposed a 5-year plan for gradual troop parity between France, Germany, Italy, and Poland, but negotiations collapsed.
3. In October 1933, Hitler withdrew Germany from both the League and the Disarmament Conference. He claimed other nations had broken their promise to disarm, making Germany the victim. A plebiscite showed 95% approval for the withdrawal.
4. Once outside the League, Germany began secret rearmament, expanding the army beyond the 100,000 limit and developing an air force (Luftwaffe) in violation of Versailles.

The Failed Anschluss (July 1934)

1. Austrian Nazis, encouraged by Hitler, attempted a coup in July 1934. They assassinated Chancellor Engelbert Dollfuss and attempted to seize government buildings in Vienna.
2. Mussolini, who considered Austria within Italy's sphere of influence, sent Italian troops to the Austrian border (the Brenner Pass). This show of force intimidated Hitler, and the coup collapsed. The new Chancellor, Schuschnigg, restored order.
3. This was Hitler's only significant setback in the 1930s. It taught him two lessons: he needed to secure Mussolini's cooperation before attempting Anschluss again, and he needed to build Germany's military strength first.

The Saar Plebiscite (January 1935)

1. The Saar had been placed under League administration for 15 years under the Treaty of Versailles, with its coal mines given to France as reparation. A plebiscite was scheduled for January 1935.
2. Over 90% voted for reunification with Germany. Hitler presented this as proof that the German people supported his leadership and policies. It was a legitimate success under the terms of Versailles itself.
3. The Saar's return boosted Nazi propaganda and gave Hitler confidence to pursue further territorial changes. It also provided valuable industrial resources, especially coal and steel production.

Rearmament and Conscription (March 1935)