Hitler Declares Protectorate Over Bohemia and Moravia
March 16th, 1939
March 16th, 1939

How Long Ago?
85 years, 11 months, 27 days ago
Location
Prague, Czech Republic
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
World War II
People
- Adolf Hitler
- Emil Hácha
Links & References
Tags
Hitler Declares Protectorate Over Bohemia and Moravia
Adolf Hitler announced the establishment of the German protectorate over Bohemia and Moravia from Prague Castle. This declaration followed the dismemberment of Czechoslovakia and solidified German control over these territories. The proclamation encompassed political and military integration into the Third Reich, signaling a significant escalation in Nazi expansionist policies. Hitler's address emphasized the necessity of this move for the security and stability of Germany in the face of supposed threats while asserting the cultural superiority of the German nation.
Hitler's proclamation on March 16, 1939.
Czech territories under full Nazi control.
Framed as protection for ethnic Germans.
Set the stage for further WWII aggression.
What Happened?
The declaration of Bohemia and Moravia as a German protectorate marked a pivotal moment in Adolf Hitler's expansionist agenda leading up to World War II. Following the Munich Agreement, which dismembered Czechoslovakia and allowed for the annexation of the Sudetenland, the country was notably weakened. On March 16, 1939, from the historical Prague Castle, Hitler's proclamation officially confirmed the Nazi regime's complete domination over the remaining Czech territories. The decision was presented under the guise of protecting the German population and maintaining order in the region.
As Hitler stood at the helm of this declaration, he framed the move as a necessary response to ensure security for Germany. During the speech, he spoke of the cultural ties between Germany and the regions of Bohemia and Moravia, articulating a narrative that justified this act of aggression. The establishment of the protectorate saw immediate changes, with German officials assuming control over the administration, military, economy, and suppressing any remnants of Czech sovereignty.
The repercussions of this action reverberated through Europe, as it signaled the futility of appeasement policies and demonstrated Hitler's unyielding ambitions in Eastern Europe. The protectorate would become a key area for Nazi industrial exploitation and the logistical base for further operations in the war. Resistance movements within the protectorate emerged, but they faced severe repression from Nazi authorities.
Why Does it Matter?
This declaration set the stage for intensified conflict in Europe, serving as a precursor to the full-scale invasion of Poland and the onset of World War II. It showcased the failure of previous diplomatic efforts to contain Hitler's aggressive policies, fundamentally changing the political landscape of Europe. The event is interesting as it reflects the shifting boundaries and the realities of nationalism during this turbulent period.
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