World War II 1939-1945

Causes of World War II Political instability and economic devastation in Europe resulting from World War I. Worldwide depression/massive unemployment People are desperate for jobs High war debt owed by Germany High inflation

Continued causes of World War II Rise of Fascism Fascism is a strong centralized nationalistic government led by a dictator. Dictators included Adolf Hitler (Germany), Benito Mussolini (Italy), and Hideki Tojo (Japan). These dictators led the countries that became known as the Axis Powers.

immediate causes of World War II Germany’s desire for “living space” Nazi Germany’s motivation for land and raw materials Munich Conference Hitler and Chamberlain agree to allow Hitler the Sudetenland (a “German” part of Czechoslovakia) and Hitler promised to stop seeking any more territory. Example of appeasement; Great Britain met Germany’s demands in order to avoid war. Invasion of Poland Hitler invades Poland in 1939. Great Britain and France declare war on Germany. Soviet Union invades Poland and the Baltic nations. Treaty of Versailles Betrayal; Germany, Italy and Japan Forced to accept the blame. Forced to give up land. Hitler wanted revenge.

1935: Italy invades Ethiopia - Ethiopia had cavalry and outdated rifles against Italy’s modern tanks and airplanes. - Ethiopia asked for aid from the League of Nations, however Britain and France had their own problems and didn’t want to get involved with a war.

Axis vs Allies Three Leaders of Axis: Germany The Big Four: Italy Japan Other Axis: Hungary Romania Bulgaria The Big Four: Great Britain France Soviet Union United States Other Allies: Australia Belgium Bolivia Brazil Canada China Denmark Greece Mexico Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland South Africa Yugoslavia