REVISION IGCSE CAMBRIDGE HISTORY: SAAR. Saarland is a state of Germany located in the west of the country. Covering an area of 2,570 skm and with a population of 995,600 (2015), it is the smallest German state in both area and population apart from the city-states of Berlin, Bremen and Hamburg. Saarbrücken is the state capital and largest city, while other major cities include Neunkirchen and Saarlouis. Saarland is surrounded by France to the west (apart from a few kilometres of the Moselle river bordering Luxembourg) and south and the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate to the north and east.

1. SAAR
IGCSE HISTORY
REVISION

2. DEFINITION
Saar is a German region claimed by France and Germany.

3. Question 1
Why was the Saar so important?

4. Answer 1
It contained large coalfields, iron ore and steel factories.

5. Question 2
What did the Treaty of Versailles decide
about the Saar?

6. Answer 2
The League of Nations was to control it for 15 years and then a
plebiscite (vote) was to decide its future.

7. Question 3
What three options did voters have in
1935?

8. Answer 3
To remain under League control.
To return to Germany.
To become part of France.
Over 90% voted to return to Germany.

9. Question 4
Was Hitler pleased by the vote?

10. Answer 4
Very much so. Not only did he gain important resources, but the vote was
the first step towards the union of all Germans in Germany.

11. Important
The overwhelming vote in favour of a return to Germany was seen by
Hitler as an indication of popular support for his government and
policies.