1. Rhineland:
- In 1936, Germany remilitarized the Rhineland, which was a violation of the Treaty of Versailles.
- Britain's response: Britain was cautious and tried to appease Germany. It did not take significant action, fearing that a confrontation could lead to war.
- France's response: France was more alarmed and wanted to take military action against Germany. However, without British support, France ultimately did not intervene.
2. Austria:
- In 1938, Germany annexed Austria in an event known as the Anschluss.
- Britain's response: Britain was concerned but still pursued appeasement. It condemned Germany's actions but did not take tangible steps to oppose the annexation.
- France's response: France was also worried but was reluctant to act without British support.
3. Czechoslovakia:
- In 1938, Germany made territorial demands on Czechoslovakia, leading to the Munich Agreement.
- Britain's response: Britain played a key role in negotiating the Munich Agreement and pressuring Czechoslovakia to cede the Sudetenland to Germany.
- France's response: France reluctantly agreed to the Munich Agreement but was deeply concerned about Germany's expansionist policies.
Overall, Great Britain and France had differing approaches to the events in the Rhineland, Austria, and Czechoslovakia. Britain emphasized appeasement and avoiding conflict, while France was more inclined to take a stronger stance against Germany's actions. However, their failure to act decisively ultimately emboldened Germany and contributed to the outbreak of World War II.