Danzig Annexed by Nazi Germany
September 2nd, 1939
September 2nd, 1939

How Long Ago?
85 years, 6 months, 13 days ago
Location
Gdańsk, Poland
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
World War II
People
- Adolf Hitler
- Hans Frank
- General Friedrich von Paulus
Links & References
Tags
Danzig Annexed by Nazi Germany
Following the invasion of Poland, Nazi Germany annexes the Free City of Danzig, now Gdańsk, solidifying its territorial claims. The annexation is marked by a swift military action after a tense buildup of troops and political pressures. The region's German population largely supported the move, viewing it as a reunification with the homeland. This aggressive act further escalated tensions leading to widespread war in Europe, altering the fate of nations and millions.
Danzig was a Free City post-WWI.
Annexation followed Germany's invasion of Poland.
High support among Danzig's German population.
Event escalated tensions leading to World War II.
What Happened?
The Free City of Danzig, a semi-autonomous city-state established after World War I, was primarily populated by ethnic Germans. With the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, Danzig became a focal point of German nationalism. On September 1, 1939, Germany launched its invasion of Poland, which began the Second World War. The following day, an accelerating offensive operation was initiated in Danzig. German troops moved to occupy the city, announcing its formal annexation under German control. This act was justified by Nazi propaganda, which claimed a need to protect the German population from perceived threats from Poland.
The annexation not only illustrated Germany's aggressive expansionist policies but also set a precedent for further territorial claims in Europe. The takeover was met with minimal opposition, and the city was quickly integrated into the Reich. Symbolically, the event represented the collapse of the post-World War I order, leading to the remapping of Europe and significant shifts in national boundaries throughout the following years of conflict. The annexation also served as a grim foreshadowing of the brutal wars and occupation policies that would soon engulf much of Europe.
In addition to military implications, the event illustrated the failure of appeasement policies by European powers, who underestimated Hitler's ambitions. Following Danzig’s annexation, many other regions would fall under Nazi control, offering insights into the strategies employed by the Third Reich during their campaigns across Europe. The annexation was a pivotal moment not just for Poland but also for all of Europe, indicating a further descent into conflict that would shape the modern world.
Why Does it Matter?
The annexation of Danzig is significant as it marked a crucial step in Nazi Germany's expansionist ambitions, directly contributing to the escalation of World War II. This aggressive act showcased the efficacy of military power to achieve political objectives, undermining international law. The event exemplifies how nationalism can catalyze conflict, leading to a series of aggressive military campaigns that reshaped European borders and engaged the world in war.
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