The Anschluss, or the annexation of Austria in 1938, was a key event that reflected the broader goals of Nazi foreign policy. It aligned with Hitler's vision of a greater German Reich that included all German-speaking people. The move was both ideologically driven, promoting the idea of racial unity, and strategically beneficial, as it expanded Germany's territory and resources. Additionally, the Anschluss increased Germany's strategic position in Central Europe, providing a base for further expansion eastward. The successful annexation without significant international opposition also demonstrated the effectiveness of Hitler's aggressive foreign policy tactics and emboldened further territorial ambitions.

The reoccupation of the Rhineland in 1936 was a strategic move that significantly altered the balance of power in Europe. By remilitarizing the Rhineland, Hitler not only defied the Treaty of Versailles but also eliminated the buffer zone between Germany and France. This bold action demonstrated Germany's growing military strength and willingness to challenge the post-World War I order. The lack of significant response from France and Britain emboldened Hitler, signalling a weakness in the resolve of Western democracies. The remilitarization enhanced Germany's strategic position, allowing Hitler to pursue further aggressive policies in Europe with less fear of immediate military retaliation.

Germany's shift towards autarky under Nazi rule had several significant economic consequences. The focus on self-sufficiency meant a substantial reduction in foreign trade and a greater emphasis on domestic production of raw materials and goods. This policy led to a diversification of the German economy, with increased investment in industries like synthetic rubber and oil, agriculture, and armaments. While autarky did reduce unemployment and stimulate economic growth, it also created inefficiencies and shortages, as Germany was not fully capable of producing all necessary goods domestically. The pursuit of autarky was also intertwined with military objectives, as it aimed to prepare Germany for prolonged conflict without relying on external resources.

The Munich Agreement of 1938 significantly impacted international perceptions of Hitler's foreign policy. Initially, it was viewed as a diplomatic success and a symbol of peace, with British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain famously declaring it as "peace for our time." However, the agreement, which allowed Germany to annex the Sudetenland in Czechoslovakia, was later seen as a prime example of appeasement. The failure of the Munich Agreement became evident when Hitler violated it by occupying the rest of Czechoslovakia in 1939. This act exposed the futility of appeasement and portrayed Hitler as untrustworthy and aggressive, leading to a shift in international policy towards Germany.

The German-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact, also known as the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, was a crucial element in Hitler's foreign policy. Signed in August 1939, it was a strategic move by Hitler to secure Germany's eastern border before engaging in military action in the west. This pact surprised many, given the ideological differences between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. A secret protocol divided Eastern Europe into German and Soviet spheres of influence, allowing for the subsequent partition of Poland. The pact gave Hitler the confidence to invade Poland, which directly led to the outbreak of World War II, as it ensured Soviet neutrality during the initial phase of the war.