Austrian Unification Under Nazi Influence

This chapter explores the political intrigue surrounding Austria's potential unification with Germany in the late 1930s, focusing on Chancellor Schusnig's attempts to manipulate a plebiscite for independence. It details Hitler's preemptive military intervention that secured support for unification and examines the legitimacy of the resulting referendum amid blatant electoral manipulation. The chapter also reflects on the historical implications of political narrative versus reality, alongside insights into Austria's chaotic political landscape post-Austro-Hungarian Empire.