On 12 March 1938, the world awoke to one of the most chilling chapters of 20th-century history. Adolf Hitler, in a sweeping act of aggression, annexed Austria in what became known as the Anschluss. This event, seen by some at the time as a mere "unification," was in reality a ruthless power grab, setting the stage for greater horrors that would soon engulf Europe. Now, in 2025, history appears to be repeating itself... different players, different lands, but the same imperial ambitions.
Russia’s ongoing encroachment into Ukraine bears an eerie resemblance to Germany’s expansionist policies of the 1930s. The gradual absorption of Ukrainian territories under the guise of "historical ties" and "security concerns" mimics the rhetoric Hitler employed to justify the annexation of Austria and, later, the Sudetenland. Just as the Western powers hesitated in 1938, torn between diplomatic caution and outright confrontation, today's geopolitical landscape is marked by indecision and hollow condemnations that fail to deter further aggression.
Yet, in an unexpected twist, the irony of history extends beyond Russia’s actions. The United States, the bastion of democratic ideals and self-determination, now finds itself at the center of its own controversy. Whispers of American expansionism, with threats to annex Canada and Greenland, sound alarm bells reminiscent of past imperialistic ventures. Whether these threats are rhetorical or genuine, the very suggestion shakes the foundations of the international order. Just as Austria in 1938 had those who welcomed German annexation, modern-day debates in certain factions of Canadian and Greenlandic society mirror that historical paradox where fear, economic incentives, or ideological alignment blur the lines between consent and coercion.
What makes these parallels more disturbing is not merely the recurrence of annexationist policies but the individuals at the helm. In 1938, Hitler’s rise was fuelled by nationalism, economic discontent, and a populist wave that dismissed established norms. Today’s leaders, whether in Moscow, Washington, or elsewhere, exhibit similar tendencies: consolidating power, manipulating narratives, and bending historical grievances to serve their political ambitions. The 21st century was supposed to have learned from the errors of the past, yet the ghosts of 1938 loom larger than ever.
If history teaches us anything, it is that appeasement and inaction enable aggression. The world’s reluctance to challenge Hitler in 1938 led to the devastation of World War II. Today, global leaders face a defining moment, will they stand firm against expansionist ambitions, or will they once again allow history to take its dark and familiar course?
The echoes of Anschluss still reverberate. Whether we choose to listen and act is the true test of our time.
In my very first editorial in the first issue of Ovi history I wrote: “by studying the past, we can better understand the present and shape the future. We hope that our magazine will inspire readers to think critically about the world around them and to work towards building a more just and equitable society.” Standing by the same principals,
So... Read the Ovi History e-Zine it online HERE!
Enjoy viewing & reading it online or download in PDF format HERE!
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And yes a joined eBook, The Anschluss fog this time by Lucas Durand, HERE!
So, please, enjoy the reading even though ...not a joyful issue...
Thanos Kalamidas
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