Adolf Hitler's Foreign Policy

Adolf Hitler's foreign policy was a central component of his overall strategy to establish Nazi Germany as a dominant power in Europe and eventually achieve world domination. His policy was characterized by a combination of aggressive expansionism, militarism, and racial ideology. Here are the main features of Hitler's foreign policy:

1. Rejection of the Treaty of Versailles:
Hitler vehemently opposed the Treaty of Versailles, which was imposed on Germany after World War I. He viewed it as a humiliating and unjust imposition that crippled Germany's economy and military capabilities. Hitler aimed to overturn its provisions and regain Germany's lost territories.

2. Territorial Expansion:
Hitler sought to expand Germany's borders and create a greater German empire, known as the Third Reich. His primary objectives were the acquisition of Lebensraum (living space) for the German people and the unification of all German-speaking territories under German control. This expansionist policy led to the annexation of Austria and the occupation of Czechoslovakia in the late 1930s.

3. Creation of a New Order:
Hitler envisioned a new social and political order in Europe, which would be dominated by the Aryan race. He believed in the superiority of the Germanic people and sought to establish a racial hierarchy with Germans at the top. Non-Aryan populations were seen as inferior and subject to subjugation or extermination.

4. Non-Aggression Pact with the Soviet Union:
In a surprising move, Hitler signed a non-aggression pact with the Soviet Union in 1939, known as the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. This agreement allowed Germany to avoid a two-front war and provided Hitler with a temporary ally. However, Hitler eventually broke the pact and invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.

5. Policy of Appeasement:
Hitler exploited the policy of appeasement pursued by Western powers, such as Britain and France, in the late 1930s. He took advantage of their desire to avoid another devastating war by making incremental territorial demands and promising peace. This allowed Hitler to consolidate his power and expand German influence without significant opposition.

6. Preparation for War:
Hitler implemented a massive rearmament program, known as the Four Year Plan, to build up Germany's military capabilities. He prioritized the development of a powerful air force (Luftwaffe), a modernized army, and advanced weaponry. This militarization aimed to prepare Germany for future conflicts and achieve military superiority over its adversaries.

7. Pursuit of Lebensraum in Eastern Europe:
Hitler's ultimate goal was to conquer vast territories in Eastern Europe, particularly the Soviet Union, to establish living space for the expanding German population. This expansionist ambition fueled the invasion of Poland in 1939, triggering the outbreak of World War II.

In conclusion, Hitler's foreign policy was characterized by territorial expansion, rejection of the Treaty of Versailles, racial ideology, and militarism. It aimed to establish a new order in Europe under German dominance and achieve Hitler's vision of a racially-defined empire.

He pulled Germany out of the league of Nations in 1933.