Anschluss is a historical event that took place in 1938, and involves the annexation of Austria to Nazi Germany. Because Austrians and Germans share many traditions, have similar cultures and speak the same language, Nazi authorities believed that unification of Germany and Austria under German rule as the Third Reich was their immediate priority before they started to conquer other European countries.

Although the Chancellor of Austria initiated a referendum to ask the Austrians about their opinions on the annexation and incorporation into Germany, it never took place because of a rebellion of the Austrian Nazi Party, who seized the power. It is now believed that the majority of Austrians were against the annexation, which would have been manifested during the referendum. On 12th March 1938 the Nazi Army crossed the border and occupied Austria, and they did not meet any resistance.