Anschluss

Anschluss is the term used to describe the incorporation of Austria into Nazi Germany in March 1938, forming a single state within the German Reich. The word itself means connection or annexation in German. The event marked the culmination of Nazi expansionist aims in Central Europe and ended Austria’s status as an independent republic for the duration of World War II.

Background and lead-up: After Adolf Hitler rose to power in Germany in 1933, Austrian Nazis and German agents pressured Vienna to unite with Germany. The Austrian government faced internal political instability and opposition from pro‑German factions. In early 1938, Chancellor Kurt Schuschnigg attempted to resist German pressure and even planned a referendum to defend Austrian sovereignty, but Berlin pressed for dissolution of the Austrian state.

Events: On March 12, 1938, German troops crossed the Austrian border and were welcomed by some segments of the population. By March 13, the union was proclaimed, and the Austrian government had largely been sidelined. A referendum was held on April 10, 1938 under the authority of the German regime; official results indicated overwhelming support for unification, though the vote occurred under coercive conditions. Austria ceased to exist as a separate state and became part of Greater Germany, later administered as the Reichsgaue Ostmark.

International and domestic impact: The Anschluss violated the Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye (1919) and the Covenant of the League of Nations, and it drew condemnation from some powers though produced little immediate action. The incorporation facilitated Nazi policies in Austria, including repression of political opponents and Jews, and the integration of Austrian institutions into the Nazi state.

Aftermath: Following World War II, Austria regained full independence with the 1955 Austrian State Treaty and established a stance of neutrality. The Anschluss remains a significant and controversial episode in Austrian and European history.