Hitler’s Strategic Ambition

Secret records and observed conduct reveal that the Sudeten crisis is one stage in a larger project of territorial expansion.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Directive for Green

An Invasion Prepared Strategic Orders Hitler’s directive outlines the rapid defeat of Czechoslovakia and the use of surprise attacks. Evidence of Intent The document contradicts the image of a leader seeking only a negotiated border adjustment.

The Copy Reaches Legat

The Plan Delivered A Mysterious Visitor The directive is left at Legat’s home without an accompanying message. A Diplomatic Assessment Cadogan accepts that it appears genuine but recognises that its usefulness depends on who supplied it and why.

The Earlier Memorandum

Expansion Discussed in Private A Strategic Conference The record describes Hitler’s interest in space, resources and force as tools of German policy. Warnings Ignored Senior military and diplomatic figures raised doubts, but the warning did not prevent their later displacement.

The Memorandum in Munich

Evidence Reaches the Prime Minister Hartmann’s Warning Hartmann and Legat present the record to Chamberlain before the final signatures. A Deliberate Choice Chamberlain refuses to let an earlier private discussion overturn his judgment about the immediate crisis.

The Threat Continues

Peace Does Not End the Plan The Warning Remains The documents establish a pattern of intentions that the Munich settlement does not address. Legat’s Forecast He interprets the accord as a tripwire for a later conflict rather than proof that Hitler’s ambition has ended.

30 May 1938

27 September 1938, night

5 November 1937, recalled on 29 September 1938

29 September 1938, late evening

30 September 1938, after the declaration