Polish-Czech Pledge to Austria 1936

Let us suppose that Poland and Czechoslovkia both gave the Austrian their pledge to support it shouldd Hitler try to seize the country. It is quite likely that with that support Chancellor Dollfus and his successor might have stood up to Hitler and crush the Austrian Nazi Party totally. Seems doubtful that the Geramn army would have invaded and even the French might have shown more backbone.
 

yourworstnightmare

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Donor
The problem is to get the Poles and the Czechs on the same table. You really need to have France working behind the curtains here, because the Poles would never work with the Czechs, due to Teschen, if they are not convinced by a great power.
 
I believe that while what you say is correct that it would be possible that seperately Czechoslovkia and Poland might each give the same pledge to Austria.
It is just recently come to light that if the Austrian Government had resisted rhe German attempt to unite with Austria that France was willing to stand by the Austrian governmant. It was willing to aid it to what ever extent that that might require including the mobilization of the French Army.
So this could in affect result in a French, Czechoslovkian and Polish guarentee of Austrian Independence.
 

yourworstnightmare

Banned
Donor
The French would not do anything themselves, except work behind curtains and make other nations do their dirty work. The French wanted to avoid war, since their economy was terrible.

Also remember, Schuschnigg was much weaker than Dollfuss was, had less support and even if not many Austrians were happy about the Nazis, they had little respect for their current leader. Before Dollfuss had come to power in Austria and Hitler in Germany, most Austrians had favored an Anschluss. Dollfuss had temporarily given the Austrians an own identity based on the Catholic Church and the notion that Austrians were "better Germans" than those living in Germany. Schuschnigg was never as convincing.
 
Let me say this France was prepared to take action. According to The Uncrowned Emperor, Otto had talks with the French Intelligence service and was surprised that not only was it more than willing to help Austria but the French government was willing to use MILITARY FORCE. The only condition that was required was that Austria would have to stand up to Hitler and be willing to fight!
 
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