What events led to the Anschluss?

Answer 1

1933 The Austrian Chancellor, Dolfuss, banned both the Nazi Party and Communists. July 1934 The Nazi Party assassinate Dolfuss. July 1936 Chancellor Schuschnigg and Hitler signed a pact that meant Germany would accept Austrian independence but that Austria must remain in line with Germany's foreign policy. October 1936 Italy and Germany signed the Rome-Berlin Axis which meant Germany and Italy would follow a common foreign policy therefore it was unlikely that Italy would oppose the Anschluss. November 1936 Germany and Japan signed the Anti-Commintern Pact which was an agreement to oppose the spread of Communism and was particularly aimed at Russia. July 7th 1937 The Second Sino-Japanese War began. The consequent Japanese expansion threatened parts of the British Empire along with their financial and commercial interests in the Far East. It was clear that the British army was not strong enough to fight the enemies in the East as well as possible enemies in Europe. 5th November 1937 Hossbach Memorandum November 1937 Italy joined the Anti-Commintern Pact. 13th February 1938Schuschnigg held a referendum were Austrian's were asked to vote in favour of Austrian independence. 12th March 1938 German troops entered Austria. 13th March 1938 Austria was announced as part of Germany 10th April 1938

Austrians were asked if they approved of the Anschluss. The result was that 99% were in favour of it however, it is argued that this was unfair as Jews were banned from voting as were opponents of the regime.