Step One on the Road to War: The Rhineland

Hitler's First Gamble

The first move towards achieving Hitler's goals required the German Army to reoccupy the Rhineland. The Rhineland was on the border of France and held important resources for German industry. This move was in complete disregard of the Treaty of Versailles, which did not allow the German Army to be near the French border.

By ordering his troops into the Rhineland, Hitler was taking a huge gamble. In reality, the German Army only had 30,000 fully equipped and trained men. If the Allies had moved to stop them, Hitler was fully prepared to run away, and wait for another opportunity later.

Eyewitness Account

If the French had marched into the Rhineland, we would have to had to withdraw with our tails between our legs!

Adolph Hitler
Speaking at a dinner party in 1940

The Gamble Pays Off

Just ten years before Hitler had ordered his troops into the Rhineland, England and France signed an agreement stating that they would stop this kind of action. As German soldiers moved forward, England stated that she was not interested in going to war, over a small slice of territory that was inside of Germany. Furthermore, the French government was not prepared to go to war without England's support. The lack of willingness by the Allies Hitler's gave Hitler confidence to move ahead with his next plans.

The gamble had paid off for Hitler, and he immediately began to consolidate his gains. He quickly ordered that fortifications be built along the French border in case the Allies intended to invade or oppose him. He now turned his attention toward Austria, and his goal of unification of German speaking people.

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Movie Clip: Hitler and Nazi Troops