Capítulo 79: Total control
In July 1933, the Austrian government came to a grim realization about their geopolitical situation. Western European powers, including Britain, had decided to abandon Austria to allow Germany to expand eastward. France, grappling with an economic crisis and the financial drain of the Maginot Line, was too preoccupied to intervene. The Soviet Union, while outwardly critical of Germany, had secretly acquiesced to the German ambitions in Austria and Czechoslovakia's Sudetenland. Italy, initially opposed to the German annexation of Austria, changed its stance following Mussolini's visit to Berlin, even beginning to support the German plan. In the United States, after considerable debate in Congress, conservative forces overruled a more confrontational stance proposed by President Roosevelt, opting instead to support Germany's "peaceful" rise.
Faced with international abandonment and the aggressive posture of German diplomats, the desperate Austrian government decided to play what they believed was their last viable card—public opinion. They announced a referendum scheduled for September 1933, allowing the people to choose between union with Germany or maintaining their independence. However, under immense pressure, they were compelled to sign a transitional treaty with Germany. This agreement forced Austria to acknowledge its identity as a Germanic country and act accordingly. The Austrian government hoped this treaty would ease tensions, delay Germany's annexation plans, and buy time until the international situation or Western Europe's economic conditions changed favorably.
Unfortunately, German Chancellor Akado had no intentions of waiting. Confident in the support he had secured from major powers, he began preparations to annex Austria. On the morning of August 25, 1933, Austrian border guards were stunned to see a large German military force approaching. The convoy included trucks, cavalry, and even tanks and armored vehicles. An open-top Mercedes-Benz military car stopped just short of the border, and Major Huffman of the Wehrmacht's 25th Armored Division disembarked. Approaching the Austrian checkpoint, he declared his orders to advance towards Vienna and advised against resistance to prevent German bloodshed.
The Austrian officer in charge protested, asserting that no orders had been received to allow German entry and labeling the move as an invasion. Major Huffman casually mentioned that Vienna had already sought protection from Germany and dismissed Austria's continued existence as a separate nation. Despite the Austrian officer's threats of resistance, the situation changed swiftly when he received a call confirming that Vienna was in disarray and that German forces were allowed entry to prevent further bloodshed. Reluctantly, the Austrian officer ordered his men to stand down and surrender their arms.
In Vienna, the situation escalated quickly. German diplomat confronted Austrian leader Schönig, pressing him to sign a document acknowledging Austria's integration into Germany. Schönig refused, insisting on respecting the upcoming referendum. The German diplomat revealed that the referendum was rescheduled for the next day and would include votes from Germans, effectively ensuring a favorable outcome for Germany. Despite threats and intimidation, Schönig stood firm, refusing to betray his conscience or his nation.
The takeover was swift. German forces quickly controlled key locations in Vienna, and the Austrian military was disarmed. Schönig, under duress, continued to resist until he was fatally shot by a German officer, symbolizing the brutal suppression of Austrian sovereignty.
On September 15, 1933, Akado Rudolph triumphantly entered Vienna, declaring the unification of Germany and Austria. His procession was met with mixed reactions—cheers from supporters of the Great German Party and silent despair from those mourning their lost independence. Amidst this contentious atmosphere, Akado proclaimed the permanent unity of Germany, a statement met with fervent applause from his followers and resigned acceptance from others.
As the new acting commander-in-chief of the Austrian military, Akado required all Austrian soldiers to swear allegiance to him, consolidating his control over the country. This marked the end of Austria as an independent nation and the beginning of a new, contentious chapter in its history under German rule.
In the heart of a grand hotel in Vienna, German Chancellor Akado Rudolph was delivering a rousing speech. This event celebrated Austria's formal integration as the eastern province of Germany. "Ladies and gentlemen, the dawn of Germany's ascent has arrived! We are about to witness the resurgence of our great nation! The German people, as the foremost race in the world, shall thrive eternally!" Akado proclaimed, raising his wine glass high as he addressed his supporters. "Long live Akado Rudolph!" The crowd echoed, toasting in unison.
The room was filled with notable figures from Vienna—industrial magnates, real estate moguls, bankers, and even celebrated musicians. They all eagerly embraced Akado's vision of a shared Germanic prosperity and supported the new ruler of Vienna wholeheartedly. News of Germany's dominion over Austria had already sparked jubilation across Berlin, with crowds gathering to cheer the historic moment. Since recovering the Rhineland and now annexing Austria under Akado's leadership, his name had become a symbol of fervor among the Germans.
Following the annexation, the United States sent congratulations, affirming their understanding of Germany's desire for national unity and reiterating their support for Germany's eastward expansions. Meanwhile, the British held a press conference abroad, declaring their strict neutrality on German national matters and calling for restraint from all parties. The Soviet Union expressed concerns over Germany's eastward expansion but ultimately recognized Germany's new position in Austria and the Sudetenland, acknowledging the situation with understanding. Italy, breaking from its usual stance, supported Germany's move and effectively handed over Austria. France remained silent until the last moment.
Shortly thereafter, a referendum was held in Austria under German supervision. The results were as expected: a staggering 99% voted in favor of unification with Germany. Consequently, Austria was declared a part of Germany, becoming its eastern province.
Yet, everyone knew this was not the end. The German influence in the Sudeten region of northern Czechoslovakia was growing, with the Rhineland and Austria serving as precedents. Almost every German believed that the Sudetenland was already within their grasp, and discussions about Germany's bright future were rampant.
Simultaneously, in a starkly different setting, medical staff were frantically trying to save an elderly man in a hospital. The nurse watched the IV drip nervously while the doctor periodically checked the patient. A priest stood by, whispering prayers, hoping for divine intervention for the dying man. Eventually, the lead doctor sighed deeply and shook his head, signaling the end. Two suited men approached, checked the old man's pulse, and solemnly noted the time of death.
Back at the banquet, the celebration was in full swing when a lieutenant colonel rushed to Akado and whispered urgent news: "Mr. Chancellor, I regret to inform you that President Hindenburg has just passed away."
Stunned, Akado took a moment to compose himself before placing his glass down and stepping up to the stage to halt the music. As silence fell over the room, he announced in a grave tone, "Ladies and gentlemen, I regret to inform you that our beloved President, former Imperial Marshal Paul von Hindenburg, has departed from this world."
Gasps filled the room, and the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Ladies clutched their handkerchiefs to their mouths, and men set down their glasses, their expressions turning somber. Akado continued, "Having been overseeing Germany's affairs in President Hindenburg's stead, I must now return to Berlin immediately to manage the state matters and the President's funeral."
Knowing the importance of consolidating his power, Akado was aware that with Hindenburg's death, the path was clear for him to secure absolute control. The Great German Party had laid the groundwork, and his return to Berlin would solidify his rule.
The annexation of Austria, though seemingly smooth, had involved the suppression of about 3,000 dissenters by the SS and the National Defence Force. Under Akado's orders, these individuals were detained in concentration camps, contributing labor to the German war effort.
With Hindenburg's passing, Akado felt an era had ended—an era marked by figures like Moltke, Ludendorff, and Hindenburg themselves. Despite their contributions, their legacies were tarnished by Germany's past defeats. Respecting them yet determined to exceed them, Akado set his sights on a future where he would lead Germany to new heights, potentially as its emperor.
Two hours later, Akado boarded a plane back to Berlin. Upon arrival, he was greeted by high-ranking military officials awaiting their de facto leader. Without delay, Akado began issuing orders, focusing on consolidating his power and ensuring the loyalty of the military. He instructed his secretary to initiate a public relations offensive and to keep a close watch on the families of any potential dissenters within the military ranks.
During his drive to the National Defence Forces headquarters, news arrived of a tragic accident: Stresemann, a key figure in German politics, had perished in a plane crash amid dense fog at the French-German border. This news prompted Akado to question the inevitability of historical figures' fates, pondering whether their predetermined lifespans could truly be altered.
As Akado prepared for the state funeral and contemplated the heavy responsibilities awaiting him, he also thought about his own legacy. Would he rise to become the emperor of Europe, or meet a fate similar to Hitler's? These thoughts occupied his mind as he readied himself to face the challenges of leading a nation at such a pivotal moment in history.
"Let us mourn our beloved Mr. Streisman, and may his soul rest in peace in heaven." In a somber atmosphere, the priest presiding over Streisman's funeral offered a gentle blessing. At the funeral, notable by their absence were senior German officials; present were only a few close friends and several officers from the National Defense Force, who attended on behalf of Akado and others. It wasn't that the Great German Party was indifferent. In fact, the Party had bestowed upon Streisman all the honors he deserved posthumously. He had been appointed vice chairman of the Great German Party, and his family had received a substantial pension.
"His life was bright and glorious! He dedicated himself to the peace and development of mankind! A Nobel Prize laureate, he was a true peace seeker! He will forever live in our hearts," declared a major officer representing the Great German Party, solemnly reading the manuscript prepared by Akado. "Time will ease your pain. Your sorrow and thoughts will accompany this gentleman on his heavenly journey. May God bless Mr. Streisman! Love and memory will endure forever... Gentlemen, you may proceed with the burial," the priest gently reminded the family members gathered.
The reason why no prominent figures from the Great German Party attended this funeral was due to a long-planned ceremony coinciding with Streisman's funeral on December 21, 1933.
"Today, we stand here! On German soil! In Berlin, a land our ancestors nourished with their blood and dignity! Behind me stands a statue of André Corleone! A globally recognized freedom fighter! He is the light of the world!" Akado proclaimed, standing before a meticulously crafted statue, addressing tens of thousands of spectators.
"In front of me, there is a people, a people humiliated! After the war, our nation's pride was shattered! The victors ride our necks, trampling our dignity, the dignity of the noblest nation on the European continent! Tell me, do you choose to be free fighters like Benjamin Martin, or slaves?"
After posing the question, Akado scanned the crowd before continuing: "You might say, 'Mr. Akado, I need a job, a piece of bread.' Yes, life is crucial. But let me tell you, there is something in this world more important than life itself—freedom! Dignity!"
"As long as Germany remains divided and weak within European borders, our dignity is nonexistent! When other nations speak the word 'Germany,' they laugh contemptuously. Our dignity is nonexistent! What we need is not just bread! We need living space! A living space for our people! And this space won't come from begging or protest, but from iron and blood!"
Thunderous applause erupted! As the cheers and applause continued, Akado waved to the crowd below. Throughout Germany, the iron fists of the SS were unrelenting against those who challenged Akado's authority, yet in this moment, Akado remained the revered leader in the hearts of the German people, guiding them toward what they believed was their destined glory.
As the applause finally subsided, Akado resumed: "We are bullied, even by the weakest, trampled upon, and all we do is express strong indignation and protest. Such people are spineless! Such people are cheap! We should use cannons to make our enemies tremble! We should crush their dignity and life and show them we are not cowards who only know how to protest!"
"A country that only knows protest is spineless! A government that only knows protest is boneless! When our dignity, territory, and living space are trampled, we do not need a government that only protests without shame! You will eventually discard them!"
"I am proud of you. There are few spineless among you! Before me stands an army with millennia of unyielding blood! This blood once flowed in our ancestors' veins. It never succumbed! Now, it flows in ours. Tell me, do you want it to cool?"
"No!" the crowd shouted in unison, raising their right hands in salute, pushing against the barricades, striving to get closer to their leader. The shouts filled the venue, temporarily halting the speech as the excitement became uncontrollable. Camera flashes lit up continuously, capturing this electrifying moment.
Akado, in his imposing black SS officer uniform, stood dominantly on the podium, appearing even more commanding. At this moment, with Hindenburg gone and Hitler eclipsed, Akado was the undisputed master of Germany, a demigod in the hearts of many Germans.
"Fanny, he has become a great man now!" Jaeger Hugo exclaimed, capturing a photo of Akado with his right hand raised, turning to Fanny who stood beside him, her face filled with adoration.
"No!" Fanny smiled, "Trust me! He will be even greater! I will walk to the altar arm in arm with him!"
The crowd eventually settled, and Akado continued his captivating oration: "Two things can unite people: common ideals and shared crimes. We have grand ideals inscribed on our German flag, ideals we will defend with our last drop of blood! Here in Berlin today, nothing can save our motherland but these ideals! The Treaty of Versailles is a great disgrace! We have the determination and the right to reject it! Do you want to act? Just like Benjamin Martin took up arms, leading his compatriots under the banner of freedom to heroically confront the enemy! If you are ready to fight, then fight! Then I will see whether you are 70 million slaves or 70 million loyal Germans!"
He shouted, slamming his hands on the podium: "If one day, I, Akado Rudolph, like Benjamin Martin, am at the forefront under our German banner, even if I die in battle, I will enter heaven with a smile! I will meet those glorious ancestors of Germany. I can walk up to the great Frederick the Great and proudly say to him: 'I, your descendant, did not disgrace you. I shed my last drop of blood for great Germany!'"
"We do not fight for slavery! We fight for freedom! We are not machines, not cattle, we are humans! We are Germans who have never yielded!"
"We unite in the name of freedom! Fighting for a new and fair world! Fighting for everyone's job! Fighting for those who enslaved us to leave German soil! We do not need to spend all day fighting for shouting! Fight for our dignity! Fight for our promise!"
"Fight for the liberation of this country! Germans, we fight for the glory of our ancestors! Proudly proclaim to our children and grandchildren: We are Germans who never succumb!"
"History will always remember this day! Great Germany will rise today! All the Germans have to do is open your arms! Embrace your glory!" Akado proclaimed from the high platform, waving his arms energetically.
"My compatriots, long live Germany and the German people! Long live the German spirit! Freedom! Long live!" Akado knew his speech, though shamelessly plagiarized, was a complete success. He had stirred countless Germans to revive their nation and fight for greater strength and prosperity.
Finally, he extended his right hand once more from the high platform, concluding his address to the fervent crowd below: "Victory! ... Long live!"
"Long live Akado Rudolph!" the crowd shouted ecstatically.
In the thunderous cheers, the actual commander-in-chief of the German Wehrmacht, Brauschich, and Krupp Merkel of the Great German Party successively took the stage. As everyone stood before Akado, Merkel stepped forward and began to read the latest bill passed by Congress: "According to the special bill for German national leaders just passed by Congress, Germany will not establish the positions of President and Prime Minister for the next three years. All powers of these positions will be solely under the responsibility of Akado Rudolph."
"Long live!" The followers cheered and applauded again. After a full minute, the cheering gradually subsided, and Merkel continued to read the bill: "During this period, Akado Astoria holds the position of German head of state, commanding the German navy, land, and air forces, and is responsible for all government affairs."
After finishing, he turned and raised his right hand high: "Head of State ... Long live!"
"Head of state ... long live!" Brauschich, Krupp, and the crowd all saluted Akado with a German salute, chanting the fresh slogan: "Head of State! Long live!"
Akado, holding the armed belt with one hand, gently raised the other, pointing to the sky: "Victory! Long live!"
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