how did the Nazi party convince 99 percent of Germans and Austrians to support the annexation of Austria

History · High School · Mon Jan 18 2021

Answered on


The assertion that the Nazi Party convinced 99 percent of Germans and Austrians to support the annexation of Austria might be an overstatement, as it is challenging to quantify public opinion with such precision. However, the annexation of Austria, known as the Anschluss, did involve a combination of political maneuvering, propaganda, and intimidation orchestrated by the Nazi regime under Adolf Hitler. Some key factors include:

  1. Propaganda and Indoctrination: The Nazi regime, through Joseph Goebbels' propaganda machine, controlled the media and disseminated a powerful narrative that emphasized the unity of German-speaking peoples and the historical and cultural ties between Germany and Austria. Propaganda was used to create a sense of inevitability and desire for the Anschluss among the population.
  2. Intimidation and Coercion: The Nazis used intimidation and the threat of force to suppress opposition and dissent. The presence of the German military on the Austrian border created an atmosphere of fear, and individuals and groups opposing the Anschluss were silenced or persecuted.
  3. Political Manipulation: The Nazi regime manipulated political processes to ensure the success of the Anschluss. This included infiltrating Austrian political institutions, arresting political opponents, and orchestrating events to create a pretext for intervention.
  4. Public Support for Nationalism: The Nazis capitalized on nationalist sentiments, presenting the Anschluss as a reunification of German-speaking peoples. Appeals to nationalism and a shared sense of identity were central to gaining public support.
  5. Exploiting Economic Concerns: The promise of economic benefits and the alleviation of economic challenges also played a role. The Nazis emphasized the idea that joining Germany would bring economic prosperity and stability to Austria.

It's crucial to note that while the Nazi regime did succeed in annexing Austria in 1938, the methods used involved a combination of coercion, manipulation, and suppression of dissent. Not all Austrians supported the Anschluss, and there were individuals and groups who resisted the Nazi regime.