First Austrian Republic

The First Austrian Republic was the period from 1919, following Austria's separation from the Austro-Hungarian Empire after World War I, until 1938 when Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany. It was characterized by efforts to establish a democratic government, rebuild the economy, and define its national identity amid political instability, economic hardships, and social change. The republic faced challenges such as rising political extremism and tensions between different ideological groups. Despite difficulties, it laid the groundwork for Austria’s modern political system, lasting through significant historical upheaval until the Anschluss in 1938 ended its independence.