Austro-German Unification History

In 1938, Austria voted to join Nazi Germany in a controversial referendum following German military intervention. The vote, known as the Anschluss, was officially approved by 99% of Austrians, though the process was heavily influenced by Nazi presence and propaganda. The idea of unification with Germany had historical roots and was popular among many Austrians, despite the questionable conduct of the referendum. The video explores the complex political landscape of the time, including the influence of the Treaty of Versailles and the rise of fascism in Europe.

What was the main reason for the German troops entering Austria in March 1938?

• To support Austrian independence

• To prevent a referendum by Kurt Schuschnigg

• To promote economic cooperation

• To establish a military base

What action did Kurt Schuschnigg take to try to prevent Austria's annexation?

• He sought help from the United States

• He resigned from his position

• He legalized opposition parties

• He declared war on Germany

What was suspicious about the Austrian referendum's results?

• The use of electronic voting machines

• The 99% approval rate with a 99% turnout

• The lack of international observers

• The low voter turnout

What historical event increased the popularity of Austro-German unification?

• The American Revolution

• The signing of the Magna Carta

• The fall of the Berlin Wall

• The Treaty of Versailles

Which treaty forbade the unification of Austria and Germany after World War I?

• The Treaty of Westphalia

• The Treaty of Paris

• The Treaty of Versailles

• The Treaty of Tordesillas

What was the general sentiment in Austria regarding unification with Germany before the rise of Hitler?

• It was more popular in Germany

• It was largely unpopular

• It was considerably popular in Austria

• It was equally popular in both countries

What was the outcome of the 1927 Austrian election regarding pro-unification parties?

• They won less than 30% of the vote

• They achieved over 65% of the popular vote

• They formed a coalition government

• They were banned from participating

What was the reaction of left-wing Austrian parties to Hitler's rise to power?

• They supported the Anschluss

• They opposed unification with Nazi Germany

• They formed a coalition with Nazi Germany

• They remained neutral

Who initially promised to defend Austrian independence before changing his stance?

• Winston Churchill

• Benito Mussolini

• Franklin D. Roosevelt

• Joseph Stalin

What was the likely outcome if the Nazis had conducted an honest referendum in Austria?

• The referendum would be canceled

• The results would be inconclusive

• They would have still won

• They would have lost