Saarland Plebiscite Shows Popular Support for Germany
A plebiscite was held in Saarland where 90.3% of voters expressed their desire for the region to no longer remain under the governance of the United Kingdom and France. This vote reflected the local population's overwhelming preference for rejoining Germany, a sentiment rooted in historical and nationalistic perspectives. The plebiscite was organized under the auspices of the League of Nations, concluding a period of administration following World War I.
Saarland was governed by UK and France post-WWI.
90.3% voted to rejoin Germany in the plebiscite.
The vote highlighted nationalistic sentiments.
The outcome impacted European political dynamics.
What Happened?
In early 1935, the League of Nations facilitated a plebiscite in the Saarland region, which had been governed jointly by the United Kingdom and France since the end of World War I. The region's fate was determined by the Treaty of Versailles, which temporarily assigned Saarland to this administration following Germany's defeat. The plebiscite aimed to ascertain the will of the Saarlanders regarding their future: whether they wished to remain under the League's mandate or reunite with Germany. On January 13, voters turned out in large numbers, with 90.3% favoring the latter option, showcasing a strong sentiment for reunification with Germany, driven by cultural, historical, and national ties to the German state. The overwhelmingly positive response highlighted the local population's discontent with foreign administration and their desire to return to their homeland.
The plebiscite's high turnout and decisive results illustrated the complexities of post-World War I territorial adjustments. Saarland had substantial coal resources and its fate was economically significant for both Germany and France, as it would impact the balance of industrial power in post-war Europe. Following the plebiscite, Saarland was re-integrated into Germany on March 1, leading to economic implications and diplomatic tensions. The event foreshadowed the growing assertiveness of Nazi Germany and was indicative of the socio-political landscape in Europe as tensions began to rise ahead of World War II. As Saarland returned to Germany, the repercussions of the plebiscite were felt across international relations and shaped subsequent geopolitical narratives.
Why Does it Matter?
The Saarland plebiscite is significant as it marked a pivotal moment in the interwar period, illustrating the growing nationalistic sentiments leading to the rise of Adolf Hitler. These sentiments and the ease with which Saarland returned to German control revealed inconsistencies in the post-World War I settlements and raised questions about self-determination principles. The plebiscite served as a prelude to further territorial claims made by Nazi Germany, igniting a series of events that would culminate in World War II.