1939: Hitler-Mussolini Pact

From 1937 it became apparent that the Nazi leadership was searching for a solution to the problem of South Tyrol—it represented a “disruptive element” in the “Berlin-Rome Axis”. The “Anschluss” subsequently promoted a radical solution. A short time later, the Nazis suggested resettling the German-speaking population of South Tyrol to an eastern territory yet to be conquered. During a visit to Rome from 3 to 10 May 1938, Hitler pointed out to Mussolini “the Alpine border erected by nature between our two countries” which was to be regarded as “forever untouchable”.

Following the “Pact of Steel” of 22 May 1939, the two dictators came to an agreement: the German-speaking population of South Tyrol could opt either for the German Reich, and so maintain its language and traditions, or opt to remain in Italy but give up its culture. The hopes raised by the “Anschluss” of a return to Austria were history. After the “Berlin Agreement” of 23 June, on 21 October 1939 Hitler and Mussolini reaffirmed support for the resettlement of the South Tyroleans and the scattered German-speaking communities in the province of Trento (Lusern/Luserna, Fersental valley). Following demands by Italy, the Ladin-speaking population was also included in resettlement plans.

This “Option” caused a rift between the two groups, who were labelled as “opters” and “remainers”. By 31 December 1939, around 85% of the population had opted for Germany, but by 1943 only around 75,000 people had emigrated due to difficulties and delays caused by the war. 1943 saw the creation of “Operation Zone Aplenvorland” and South Tyrol was de facto occupied by the Wehrmacht. The Paris Agreement between Italy and Austria of 5 September 1946 included provisions for the possibility of return, and around 20,000 “returners” took advantage of this.