Rebuild the German military

Definition

Rebuilding the German military refers to the extensive efforts undertaken by Germany, particularly during the 1920s and early 1930s, to expand and modernize its armed forces in defiance of the restrictions imposed by the Treaty of Versailles. This process involved significant investments in military technology, recruitment, and training, leading to the establishment of a formidable military force that would later play a pivotal role in World War II. The rebuilding of the military also contributed to the rise of militarism and nationalism within Germany, influencing its aggressive foreign policies during this era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Treaty of Versailles limited the size of the German army to 100,000 troops and prohibited conscription, which created a strong desire among Germans to rebuild their military capabilities.
2. In secret, Germany began to establish military training programs and develop new weapons technology through agreements with countries like the Soviet Union.
3. By the time Adolf Hitler rose to power in 1933, Germany had already begun to openly violate the Treaty of Versailles by reintroducing conscription and expanding its armed forces.
4. The rebuilding of the German military was part of a broader strategy that aimed to restore national pride and revitalize Germany's status as a major European power after its defeat in World War I.
5. This militarization process played a crucial role in shaping Germany's aggressive foreign policy, ultimately leading to the outbreak of World War II in 1939.

Review Questions

• How did the Treaty of Versailles influence Germany's decision to rebuild its military?
  • The Treaty of Versailles imposed harsh restrictions on Germany's military capabilities, limiting its army size and prohibiting conscription. These limitations created widespread resentment among Germans and fueled nationalistic sentiments. In response, many Germans felt compelled to rebuild their military strength as a means to restore national pride and sovereignty, leading to secretive efforts to expand and modernize their armed forces despite international constraints.
• Analyze how the Weimar Republic's political instability impacted efforts to rebuild the German military.
  • The Weimar Republic faced significant challenges, including political extremism, economic hardships from hyperinflation, and social unrest. These conditions made it difficult for the government to maintain control and implement consistent policies regarding military rebuilding. However, some factions within the republic viewed a stronger military as essential for restoring stability and national unity, which led to clandestine support for military expansion despite opposition from pacifist elements within society.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of rebuilding the German military on European politics leading up to World War II.
  • Rebuilding the German military had profound long-term consequences for European politics. As Germany successfully expanded its armed forces in violation of the Treaty of Versailles, it contributed to heightened tensions across Europe. This militarization was instrumental in facilitating aggressive actions like the remilitarization of the Rhineland and the annexation of Austria, which undermined collective security efforts. Ultimately, these developments played a crucial role in setting the stage for World War II by fostering an environment of fear and mistrust among nations.

Related terms

Treaty of Versailles: The peace treaty signed in 1919 that ended World War I, imposing severe restrictions on Germany's military capabilities and territorial integrity.

Weimar Republic: The democratic government established in Germany after World War I, which faced significant political instability and economic challenges during its existence from 1919 to 1933.

Militarism: A political and social philosophy that places a strong emphasis on military power and the readiness for war, often leading to increased tensions between nations.