The CAUSES of WORLD WAR II, Explained [AP World History Review—Unit 7 Topic 6]

Causes of World War II

Overview of World War I and the Treaty of Versailles

• The aftermath of World War I was marked by the Treaty of Versailles, which was seen as a harsh settlement by the victorious powers, particularly Britain and France.

• Italy felt betrayed after not receiving promised territorial gains from the Allies, leading to bitterness and resentment.

Italy's Discontent Post-War

• Italy had switched sides during WWI based on promises from Allied Powers but ended up with no rewards for their efforts, contributing to national dissatisfaction.

• The peace settlements withheld land that had been promised to Italy, exacerbating feelings of betrayal among Italians.

Germany's Reaction to the Treaty

• Germany faced severe reparations that led to hyperinflation and economic turmoil; this was one major grievance against the Treaty.

• Key stipulations included demilitarization, which left Germany vulnerable, and a war guilt clause that placed sole blame for the war on Germany.

Expansionist Aspirations in Europe

• Japan began expanding into China and Pacific islands despite League of Nations' protests due to its lack of enforcement power.

• Following their grievances over lost territories from the Treaty, Germany under Hitler sought expansion through aggressive militarism in Europe.

Policy of Appeasement

• Britain and France adopted a policy of appeasement towards Hitler’s actions in hopes of avoiding another conflict; this emboldened him further.

Economic Factors Leading to WWII

• The Great Depression created widespread unemployment and desperation across nations, making populations susceptible to authoritarian leaders promising recovery.

Rise of Totalitarian Regimes

Soviet Union Under Stalin

• After Lenin's death, Stalin rose to power with ambitions beyond Russia; his desire for global communism alarmed Western powers.

Fascism in Italy

• Mussolini established a fascist state characterized by extreme nationalism and militaristic goals amid post-war discontent and economic hardship.

Fascism in Germany: The Rise of Hitler

The Influence of Fascism and Nationalism

• Mussolini's policies aimed to restore Italy's greatness, while Hitler's fascism took root in Germany under the Nazi Party.

• Adolf Hitler was a charismatic orator who effectively utilized mass communication technologies to promote his ultra-nationalistic vision for Germany.

Defining the Enemy

• In his speeches, Hitler identified common enemies—Socialists, Communists, and notably Jews—as scapegoats for Germany’s problems.

• Before its association with pure evil, the Nazi Party implemented policies that improved living standards for many Germans facing unemployment and hunger.

Key Components of Hitler's Agenda

• Hitler proposed four main strategies to address Germany’s issues:

• Cancel Reparations: He aimed to cancel reparations payments that had contributed to economic hardship.

• Remilitarization: Plans were made to remilitarize Germany, violating the Treaty of Versailles, which would project strength and stimulate war production.

• Land Acquisition: Aimed at acquiring land ("Lebensraum") for the German people.