The reasons for the German invasion of Poland in 1939 Flashcards
When was the Anschluss with Austria?
March 11-13, 1938
What did Anschluss with Austria go against?
The terms of the ToV.
What were the 3 reasons why Hitler decided to take over Austria in 1938?
- They took advantage of political instability in Austria, created by Austrian Nazis.
- Germany’s relations with Italy were improved.
- Britain and France was preoccupied with situations at home (e.g. the resignation of foreign secretary Anthony Eden in Britain).
What did Hitler hint towards in a speech in September 1938?
Germany’s plans for war.
How did Hitler break the terms of the Munich Agreement (1938) in March 1939?
Germany invaded Czechoslovakia.
What two regions in Czechoslovakia did Hitler take in March 1939?
Bohemia and Moravia
How did Britain and France respond to the invasion of Czechoslovakia?
They issued a guarantee of Poland’s independence.
What did Hitler and Mussolini sign in May 1939?
The Pact of Steel
What did the Pact of Steel state?
Both sides promised military aid/support in the event of war.
When did Hitler and Mussolini enter a military alliance?
May 1939
How big was the German army by mid-1939?
103 infantry divisions of 15,000 to 18,000 men
How many fighter and bomber planes did Germany have by mid-1939?
2000 fighter and bomber planes
How many tanks did Germany have by mid-1939?
3000 tanks
What military tactics had the Nazis developed?
Blitzkrieg (lighting war)
What type of warfare was Blitzkrieg best suited to?
Small-scale, local wards (not a world war)
