Q&A · 2:00:26-2:00:50

Would Japanese intervention prevent Germany's invasion of Yugoslavia?

Additional enemies could strengthen Hitler's incentive to seize Balkan territory.

Question

Would Japanese intervention prevent Germany's invasion of Yugoslavia?

Short answer

The invasion would remain plausible because Hitler could see territorial expansion as a way to strengthen Germany against the enlarged coalition.

Notes

Japan's entry does not make Hitler abandon territorial expansion. In this scenario, he could regard a Balkan land grab as even more necessary against the opposing great powers. The proposed change in the naval balance therefore does not by itself remove the invasion of Yugoslavia.