History Module 3: Hitler's Foreign Policy

Question 1

Why was involvement in the Spanish Civil War of benefit to Hitler?

Answer 1

1. Involvement in the Spanish Civil War allowed Hitler to test and refine military tactics and technology, including air power and blitzkrieg tactics, which were later used in World War II. This practical experience gave the German military a strategic advantage.
2. Supporting Franco’s Nationalists helped establish a fascist ally in Spain, contributing to Hitler’s goal of spreading fascist influence in Europe and securing a potential partner against communist and democratic adversaries.

Question 2

Why was the Treaty of Versailles important for Hitler’s foreign policy?

Answer 2

1. The Treaty of Versailles was a focal point of Hitler’s propaganda, allowing him to rally support by tapping into German resentment over the treaty’s harsh terms. This resentment was instrumental in gaining public support for his aggressive foreign policies aimed at overturning the treaty’s stipulations.
2. The treaty’s limitations on Germany’s military and territorial losses provided Hitler with clear objectives for his foreign policy, such as remilitarizing the Rhineland, pursuing Anschluss with Austria, and demanding the return of lost territories. These actions were framed as rectifying the injustices imposed by the treaty.

Question 3

Why did Britain adopt a policy of appeasement?

Answer 3

1. Britain adopted a policy of appeasement due to the widespread desire to avoid another devastating war like World War I. The memory of the Great War’s horrors led to a strong public and political inclination towards peace, even if it meant making concessions to potential aggressors like Nazi Germany.
2. Economic considerations also played a significant role. The British economy was still recovering from the effects of the Great Depression, and there was a belief that military conflict would hinder economic recovery. Appeasement was seen as a way to maintain stability and allow for continued economic growth.

Question 4

Why did Hitler want to achieve Anschluss?

Answer 4

1. Anschluss, or the union of Austria with Germany, was seen by Hitler as fulfilling a key element of nationalist and racial ideology, aiming to unite all ethnic Germans within a single, greater German state. This was part of his broader vision of Lebensraum, or living space, which sought to expand German territory to accommodate a perceived need for the growth of the German people.
2. Economically, incorporating Austria into Germany would bring its resources, industrial capacity, and workforce under German control, bolstering Germany’s economy and military potential. This was especially appealing as Hitler prepared for further territorial expansion in Europe.

Question 5

Why did Hitler remilitarise the Rhineland in 1936?

Answer 5

1. Remilitarizing the Rhineland was a strategic move by Hitler to strengthen Germany’s western frontier against France and the Low Countries. By placing military forces in the Rhineland, Hitler aimed to secure Germany’s borders and reduce the strategic advantage that the area’s demilitarization provided to France.
2. It was also a test of the resolve of Britain and France, as well as the effectiveness of the League of Nations. Hitler gambled that neither would take decisive action in response to the violation of the Treaty of Versailles and the Locarno Treaties. His successful remilitarization without facing significant opposition emboldened his future aggressive policies.

Question 6

Why did Britain and France do little when Germany remilitarised the Rhineland?

Answer 6

1. Both Britain and France were deeply affected by the economic and social aftermath of World War I, leading to a strong desire to avoid another conflict. This widespread war-weariness made both countries reluctant to confront Germany militarily over the Rhineland, preferring diplomatic protests instead.
2. Britain, in particular, viewed the remilitarization as Germany merely moving troops into its own territory, and thus, not a threat warranting military response. There was a belief that the Treaty of Versailles had been too harsh on Germany, and some British leaders thought that allowing Germany some leeway might lead to a more stable Europe.