Source 1 PRO Ref FO 371/21738
Source 2 PRO Ref FO 371/21737
Source 3 PRO Ref CAB21/544
Map PRO Ref FO 925/1018

The Sudetenland crisis of 1938 is one of the classic events of inter-war politics. Chamberlain's account of his meeting with Hitler which forms the centre of this enquiry reveals in an extraordinary and personal way how the two men behaved. Hitler is portrayed at one moment arguing forcefully, then angry, then reasonable again. Probably he acted out all these moods to gain maximum effect. Students will be able to use this to build up their picture of his character.

But Chamberlain is the central figure. In the years that followed he was vilified for appeasement in general and for his actions in September 1938 in particular. Students could add up the criticisms which could be levelled at him, from naivety in his view of Hitler, to national self-centredness in his failure to consult with his allies and his readiness to sacrifice the Czechs. Those, like Nevile Henderson, who were ready to be apologists for Hitler seem, if anything, more despicable now than in 1938.

On the other hand, time and the opening of documents that were secret at the time, add different perspectives. Chamberlain was of the generation which survived but was deeply revolted by the First World War. Yet he must have known the situation outlined to him by General Ismay, that Czechoslovakia was lost, that war was bound to come and that it might be better if it came later rather than sooner. Did this affect him? Is it unfair of us to criticise him for mis-judging Hitler? Students could try to construct the case for Chamberlain. Is this the same as a case for appeasement?

Hot War, Cold War: Why did major twentieth century conflicts affect so many people? KS3