Austria's German Identity: A Historical Perspective

Christopher Hitchens once said that Austria's two achievements were to have persuaded the world that Hitler was German and that Beethoven was Viennese. This quote is from his 2008 article 'The 2,000-Year-Old Panic' in *The Atlantic*. Hitchens' comment refers to the fact that Hitler was born in Austria, and that Beethoven was from Vienna.

Austria's two achievements were to have persuaded the world that Hitler was German and that Beethoven was Viennese

Austria and Germany have a long and intertwined history, with cultural, linguistic, and political connections that date back centuries. Both countries are predominantly German-speaking, and they share a border, with Austria located in Central Europe, bordering Germany to the north. Despite these close ties, Austria has maintained a distinct national identity, and its relationship with Germany has been marked by periods of both cooperation and conflict.

The quote refers to two iconic figures who have become strongly associated with either Austria or Germany in the popular imagination. Adolf Hitler, the Austrian-born leader of Nazi Germany, is often viewed as the embodiment of German nationalism and fascism. By contrast, Ludwig van Beethoven, the renowned composer, is frequently claimed as a symbol of Viennese and Austrian cultural excellence.

Hitchens' quote highlights the irony of these associations, suggesting that they reflect a degree of selective memory and myth-making on the part of both Austrians and the international community. While Hitler was indeed Austrian by birth, his political ideology and rise to power were shaped by a complex interplay of German and Austrian cultural, social, and political factors. Similarly, Beethoven, though he spent much of his adult life in Vienna, was born in Bonn, which is now part of Germany, and his musical style was influenced by both German and Austrian cultural traditions.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder that national identities and cultural associations are often more complex and nuanced than they may seem at first glance. It invites us to question the assumptions and narratives that shape our understanding of history, culture, and national identity.

Austrians have a wonderful sense of humour, Germans, not so much

Austria and Germany have historically had a close relationship, with German being the official language of Austria and the two countries sharing many cultural similarities. However, there are also significant differences between the two nations, particularly in terms of their sense of national identity. Austrians have a strong sense of patriotism and pride in their country, which is often reflected in their humour. They are known for their self-deprecating jokes and their ability to laugh at themselves, which is not always a trait associated with Germans.

Austria has a rich cultural heritage, with a long history of producing renowned artists, musicians, and philosophers. The country has a unique blend of influences from its neighbouring countries, which has shaped its distinct culture and identity. Austrians are known for their hospitality and their love of tradition, which is often reflected in their humour. They have a strong sense of community and a deep connection to their homeland, which is evident in their jokes and anecdotes.

In contrast, Germans are often perceived as being more serious and reserved. While they have a rich cultural history and a strong sense of national pride, they are not known for their sense of humour in the same way that Austrians are. Germans tend to be more direct and straightforward in their communication, which can sometimes come across as lacking in humour or warmth. However, this perception may be changing, as Germany has produced several successful comedians in recent years who are known for their wit and satire.

Overall, the quote "Austrians have a wonderful sense of humour, Germans, not so much" captures the playful rivalry and cultural differences between the two nations. It highlights the unique sense of humour that Austrians possess and the perception that Germans may be a bit more serious and reserved in comparison.

Austria is officially the Republic of Austria

Austria has a distinct culture and history from Germany, despite the two countries sharing a language and close geographical proximity. This is reflected in a quote by Christopher Hitchens, who noted that one of Austria's "achievements was to have "persuaded the world that Hitler was German and that Beethoven was Viennese".

Austria has a strong sense of national identity and sovereignty, as evidenced by a quote from an anonymous source in the Viennese Kraus Archive, translated by Gilbert Carr: "There is no question of ever accepting Nazi representatives in the Austrian cabinet. An absolute abyss separates Austria from Nazism. We do not like arbitrary power, we want law to rule our freedom".

Vienna is the capital, largest city and one of the nine states of Austria

Austria has been described as having "persuaded the world that Hitler was German and that Beethoven was Viennese". The country has also been described as having "a wonderful sense of humour, Germans, not so much".

Austria borders Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Liechtenstein and Switzerland

Austria's two achievements were to have persuaded the world that Hitler was German and that Beethoven was Viennese. This quote is attributed to Christopher Hitchens in "The 2,000-Year-Old Panic", published in The Atlantic in March 2008.

Austria, officially the Republic of Austria, is a country in the central European Union. It borders Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Vienna is the capital, largest city and one of the nine states of Austria. The country hosts the headquarters of the OSCE and OPEC. The current head of state is President Alexander Van der Bellen, and the current head of government is Karl Nehammer.

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