An evaluation of the methods used by Germany and Italy to pursue their foreign policies from 1933

I. Policies and Goals

Adolf Hitler became Chancellor of Germany in 1933, implementing policies to re-militarise Germany and expand territorial claims.
Benito Mussolini led Italy, pursuing an aggressive foreign policy with the intent to re-establish Italy as a major European power.

II. Methods Used by Germany

Non-conformance to Treaty of Versailles: Germany’s defense budget and military were significantly expanded.
Manipulation of public sentiment: Propaganda was heavily used to generate support for Germany’s foreign policy.
Bilateral pacts and agreements: Germany formed pacts, such as the Anti-Comintern Pact with Japan and Italy, to isolate potential threats.
Annexations and occupations: Claimed Sudetenland, Austria, and Czechoslovakia by using intimidation, force, and international diplomacy.
Diplomatic manoeuvres: Managed to postpone open conflict with Britain and France through peace talks and agreements.

III. Methods Used by Italy

Forceful occupation: Italy invaded and occupied countries like Ethiopia and Albania to expand its empire.
Diplomatic alliances: Signed the Rome-Berlin Axis Pact and joined the Anti-Comintern Pact to strengthen its international standing and form alliances.
Propaganda: Used propaganda to increase public support and to justify aggression.
Escalation of military capabilities: Increased military spending and made significant advancements in their military technology.

IV. Evaluation

Both Germany and Italy effectively utilised propaganda to manipulate public opinion and justify their aggressive foreign policies.
They were able to manoeuvre internationally through alliances and pacts, buying time and isolating enemies.
Their methods were essentially expansionist and militaristic, relying on fear, intimidation, and force.
The aggressive foreign policies of both countries led to escalation of tensions that finally manifested as the Second World War.