In 1907, Hitler sought entry to the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts. Three decades later, he triumphantly marched through Vienna as a conqueror. Two German states emerged—one on the global stage, the other a mere shadow of its former self. From the 1930s, both aspired to unite the German people. Hitler's arrival solidified the "Anschluss" as Germany's official policy.

Reich intelligence actively backed fascist groups. Chancellor Kurt Schuschnigg succumbed to German pressure, allowing nationalists into state structures. On February 12, 1938, he faced Hitler's ultimatum at Berchtesgaden. The Anschluss became inevitable.

A month later, Schuschnigg's last attempt at a referendum on March 9 failed. On March 11, Reich troops crossed the border, initiating occupation. Schuschnigg ordered Austrian forces not to engage. On March 12, Hitler entered Austria, his homeland. Vienna declared the union with the Third Reich on March 13.

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