1. Lebensraum (Living Space): Hitler believed that the German people needed more living space (Lebensraum) to ensure their survival and prosperity. He viewed neighboring territories in Eastern Europe, particularly those previously lost in World War I, as crucial additions to German territory. The aim was to gain control over these regions to settle German populations and exploit their resources for the benefit of Germany.
2. Aryan Supremacy and Racial Ideology: Hitler and the Nazi party held radical beliefs in Aryan superiority. They asserted that the German "Aryan" race was inherently superior to other "inferior" races. The concept of racial purity was at the core of Nazi ideology, and Hitler aimed to extend Germany's borders to consolidate and control territories inhabited by what he perceived as Aryans.
3. Reversing the Treaty of Versailles: Hitler strongly resented the Treaty of Versailles, which had punished Germany severely after World War I. The loss of territory, dismantling of the military, and economic sanctions were considered humiliating to the German people. Hitler pursued territorial expansion as a way to overturn the provisions of the Treaty and restore Germany's power and prestige in Europe.
4. Autarky and Economic Expansion: Hitler sought self-sufficiency (Autarky) for Germany and aimed to secure natural resources necessary for the nation's economic growth and industrial development. Expansion into territories rich in resources, such as coal, iron ore, and agricultural lands, offered the opportunity to reduce Germany's dependence on foreign supplies.
5. Ideological Goals: Hitler was driven by his ideology of Nazism, which encompassed both the pursuit of Aryan supremacy and territorial expansion. Expansion aligned with his visions of German dominance and a racially pure "Greater Germany."
Combining these motives, Hitler embarked on a path of aggression and geopolitical manipulation to fulfill his ambition to expand Germany's territory, power, and influence in Europe.