Figure 1.-- Here we see what looks like a regimental parade grounds. Given the small number of vehicles, we think it was fairly early in the NAZI rearmament oprogram. Notice the flag. It was the battle flag or national war ensign of the Third Reich, used by the Heer during the NAZI era. A few months after Hitler ammounced Germany's rearmament, the Heer inroduced this flag (November 7, 1935). This was the same day conscription was begun. Image courtesy of Military History of the 20th Century.

It was in March 1935 when Hitler finally decided to make public his not very well-concealed rearmament program (March 16). Hitler from the very beginning of his political caree talked about restiring Germany's greatness. And this inevitably meant rebuilding the military. And this begun soon after he seized power, albeit secretly. At the beginning when Hitler still fell weak, he carefully shielded his NAZI regime professions of peaceful intentions and conciliatiry treaties (the Vatican Cocordat in 1933 and a non-aggression pact with Poland in 1934). As his position becanme more solidified he began to take bolder steps. Hitler since seizing power had worked closely with the the military to rearm in violation of the Versailles Peace Treaty. Suddenly Hitler decided to announce the rearmament program that he had been keeping secret to both the domestic population and the international community. He was establishing military conscription, enlarging the country's army to 36 divisions, and creating an air force. He justified the decesion based on the actions of other countries. Hitler said he was responding to the refusal of other European powers to disarm. It was true that the Soviet Union had a massive military. The British and French were expanding miklitary prepararions, but largely in resonse to Germany's secret rearmament program. Britain announced an increase in armaments. The French increased conscription from 1 to 2 years, citing a shortage of draft age young men. We are not sure precisely why he picked this time. There are several factors that probably played into his decision. By 1935 the dimensions of the program were becoming more difficult to keep secret. Stalin knew about it and the Allies (Britain and France) were becoming increasing aware. In addition the domestic oposition had been defeated and the military placated. The NAZI police state well established. Hitler was elated with his success in the Saarland and had just spoken at Saarbrücken (March 1). Thus he felt secure enough to take this important step. His exultation seems to have been a factor in public announcement concerning the until then secreat rearmament program. He decided to made two major announcements, both fundamental violations of the Versailles Treaty. We do not know to what extent he discussed this decision with his intimates. He must have dicussed it with Göring because the Reich Marshal made the first public announcement. But Hotler's inclination was to make such decesions on his own rather than seeking guidance from others, almost all od whom he felt less capable. He might seek advise on how to get hisdecsions implemnented, but not as to what he should do.

Created: 2:25 AM 4/30/2012
Last updated: 2:25 AM 4/30/2012