407. The Nazis in Power: The Conquest of Austria

Pre-War Tensions

Austria's political landscape in the 1930s was marked by deep divisions and economic struggles, setting the stage for its annexation by Nazi Germany. Dominic Sandbrook explains that many Austrians, particularly German speakers, felt a strong desire to unite with Germany, a sentiment rooted in the aftermath of the Habsburg Empire's collapse 1. However, Austria was also a nation divided by political ideologies, with socialists dominating Vienna and conservative Catholics holding sway in rural areas 2. This tension was exacerbated by the rise of Engelbert Dollfuss, a Catholic authoritarian leader who opposed Nazi influence, leading to a failed coup attempt by Austrian Nazis in 1934 2.

The Austrians actually originally wanted to call their country German Austria and the allies in the treaty of Saint Germain, they actually banned them from choosing the name for their own country.

--- Dominic Sandbrook

The complex interplay of nationalism and political division made Austria a prime target for Hitler's expansionist ambitions.

   

Nationalism & Myth

Austrian nationalism played a crucial role in the events leading up to the Anschluss, the annexation of Austria by Nazi Germany. Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook discuss how the myth of Austria as a victim of Nazi aggression has been perpetuated, notably through cultural portrayals like "The Sound of Music" 3. This narrative often overlooks the strategic and economic motivations behind the annexation, such as Austria's valuable iron ore reserves needed for Germany's rearmament efforts 4. Despite previous resistance from figures like Mussolini, who initially opposed Germany's takeover of Austria, shifting alliances eventually facilitated the Nazi expansion.

The von Trapp family will be escaping because von Trapp has been summoned to serve in the new German navy, and he doesn't want to do it because he's a principled anti-Nazi.

--- Tom Holland

This blend of nationalism and strategic interests underscores the complexity of Austria's annexation.