Yugoslavia Broken Up: Hitler’s ‘New Disorder’ 1941

Abstract

This chapter begins with the German Supreme Command's announcement of the end of operations on the 'Serbian theatre.' Following World War II, the chapter covers the various categories of prisoners of war who were coming home: those who opted for Croatia, those who originated from the annex territories and from Montenegro, those who belonged to ethnic minorities, and the sick. Almost all the Jews who remained in German captivity, including some 400 officers, survived the war. The chapter also demonstrates how Adolf Hitler wanted to destroy the 'Versailles construct' that was Yugoslavia. Serbs were to be punished; Croats brought over to the Axis; Slovenes Germanised or dispersed. It highlights the dominion of Germany in economic position, communication lines and mineral deposits. Ultimately, the chapter discusses the irrevocable decision of the Führer to carve up Greece and Yugoslavia.