What did Germany have to gain by conquering smaller, southern European nations
History · Middle School · Mon Jan 18 2021
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During World War II, when Germany, under Adolf Hitler's regime, sought to conquer smaller, southern European nations, several strategic and geopolitical objectives were pursued. Germany's expansionist policies aimed to achieve the following gains:
1. Strategic Positioning:
- Conquering smaller southern European nations, such as those in the Balkans, provided Germany with strategic positioning. Control over these territories allowed for easier access to key transportation routes, facilitating the movement of troops and resources.
2. Resource Acquisition:
- Some southern European regions were rich in resources vital for Germany's war effort. This included access to raw materials, agricultural land, and strategic minerals that could support the German war machine.
3. Economic Domination:
- The conquest of smaller nations allowed Germany to exert economic control over these regions. Exploiting the economies of conquered countries contributed to Germany's overall economic strength during the war.
4. Axis Alliance Strengthening:
- By expanding its influence in southern Europe, Germany aimed to strengthen its alliance with other Axis powers, particularly Italy. The collaboration between Germany and Italy in the region was intended to create a more formidable front against the Allied forces.
5. Geopolitical Influence:
- The conquest of southern European nations allowed Germany to extend its geopolitical influence in the Mediterranean and southeastern Europe. This expansion was part of Hitler's vision of establishing a German-dominated continental bloc.
6. Military Advantage:
- Control over southern European territories provided Germany with military advantages, including improved defensive positions and the ability to project power in the Mediterranean. These gains were seen as crucial for securing Germany's southern flank.
It's important to note that Germany's conquests in southern Europe were part of a broader strategy to establish dominance over the continent and fulfill Hitler's vision of creating a Greater Germanic Reich. While Germany did gain certain advantages in the short term, the aggressive expansion ultimately contributed to the escalation of World War II and Germany's eventual defeat.