Germany’s Decision to Attack Poland: Reasons and Options
At the start of World War II, Nazi Germany made the strategic decision to attack Poland. This major military campaign set the stage for the global conflict that was to follow. In this analysis, we explore the reasons behind Germany's decision and the other options that may have been available to them. Additionally, we discuss the strategic importance of Poland for Germany’s broader war plans.
The Strategic Decision to Attack Poland
Poland was initially seen as an easy target due to several factors. It was a single, isolated nation with no natural borders to defend itself effectively. Furthermore, Germany had a Non-Aggression Pact with the Soviet Union, which temporarily shielded the USSR from a two-front war. This pact allowed Hitler to concentrate his military resources on Poland without immediate concern for the east.
Moreover, the invasion of Belgium would have meant engaging not only Belgium but also France and Britain. Hitler’s hope was to undertake a swift and successful invasion of Poland without provoking a full-scale European conflict. His miscalculation in this regard led to Germany being drawn into a wider war before it was fully prepared for it. This period is commonly referred to as the “Sitzkrieg” or “Phoney War,” due to the largely uneventful fighting on the Western Front during the initial months of the war.
Ideal Proving Ground for Blitzkrieg
Germany chose Poland as the perfect testing ground for its new military tactics, known as Blitzkrieg. Poland’s warm, sunny climate and its flat terrain were ideal for armored vehicles and mechanized warfare. This proved to be an effective terrain for the rapid and efficient maneuvers that the German army employed during the invasion.
Furthermore, Poland’s strategic location was a significant factor in Hitler’s plans. Ukraine, the target of Germany’s ultimate ambitions, provided rich natural resources such as oil and agricultural land. By controlling Poland, Germany could use it as a stepping stone or a buffer zone to launch further offensives against the Soviet Union. This expansion into Ukraine would ensure a steady supply of resources needed to support Germany's growing war effort.
Legitimate Claims and Strategic Importance
While Germany initially cited claims for Danzig and the Polish Corridor as legitimate reasons for the invasion, these were not seen as crucial. The primary objective of Nazi Germany was not to defend Western Civilization or champion democracy but rather to expand into and against the Soviet Union. The map clearly shows that Poland stood as a buffer between Germany and the USSR. Its removal was a necessary step to allow for a future German offensive against the Soviet Union.
Attempting to convince Poland to be an ally was plan A. However, after five years of negotiations and Poland's refusal to cooperate in March 1939, plan B came into play. This involved the military crushing of Poland to create a common border with Russia, facilitating a future offensive against it. This strategic intent overshadows the seemingly minor justification of the invasion rooted in territorial claims.
Conclusion
The decision to invade Poland by Nazi Germany was a strategic move made with clear objectives in mind. The creation of an obstacle between Germany and the Soviet Union was vital for Germany's long-term war plans. By focusing on these larger goals, Germany's military and political leadership aimed to secure resources and create a buffer to protect against potential Soviet aggression. The failure to first attack Belgium and other potential targets highlights the strategic priorities of Hitler and his successors.
Understanding the reasons behind Germany's decision to invade Poland provides crucial insights into the complexities of World War II and the role of military strategy in shaping the course of global conflict.