Introduction

If Adolf Hitler had been solely anti-communist and not a racist, would the outcome of World War II be significantly different? This article explores such a scenario and examines the potential implications on resistance movements, the war's duration, and how Hitler would be remembered.

Attitude towards Communism

Hitler's hatred of communism was tightly linked to his animosity towards the Jewish people. To the Nazis, communism and Jewry were seen as integral parts of a single ideological threat. Therefore, in an alternate history where Hitler was anti-communist but not racist, his primary goal would have been to combat the spread of communism rather than eliminating racial groups.

Compatibility with Allies

In this scenario, Hitler would likely be welcomed by most of Europe and even the United States, as both were anti-communist. Versailles treaty conditions would still compel him to invade, and he might even be integrated into the Axis powers with the Soviet Union becoming an Axis member. This encouragement from anti-communist nations could provide an opportunity for other anti-communist countries to eliminate their own communist factions.

War and Resistance Movements

The invasion of Poland and the start of a world war would still occur, as Hitler had to find a place to expand his influence. However, the treatment of the occupied peoples might be a bit better, leading to fewer resistance movements. For example, in France, there were about 100,000 people actively resisting the Nazi occupation, compared to 850,000 in Poland. In Poland, the resistance movements significantly disrupted German supply lines, contributing to the overall resistance efforts.

Wehrmacht and Resistance

The reduction in resistance could result in more resources for the Germans, potentially leading to more significant territorial successes against the Soviets and the British. The resistance movement in the Soviet Union could be weaker, making it more difficult for the Soviet Union to gather intelligence or disrupt German operations. This scenario might have led to fewer fates worse than death for the peoples of occupied territories, though the core structure and brutality of the occupation would remain.

International Perception of Hitler

In this alternate history, Hitler might not be remembered as a monster. Instead, he could be seen as a military genius who played a pivotal role in ending communism in Europe. Similar to modern historical interpretations of some leaders, the phrase "Hitler as a military genius who brought about the downfall of mainland Europe" could emerge. The public perception might range from hero worship to deep revulsion, depending on the individual's stance on communism and the war.

Conclusion

While Hitler's actions in a world where he was solely anti-communist might alter certain details of World War II, the overall outcome may remain remarkably similar. The war could last longer, but the fundamental outcome—victory for the anti-communist alliance—might stand. The key difference would be in how we remember and evaluate Hitler's legacy.