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The Treaty of Versailles
Countries met at the end of WWI to create a treaty to end the war. It took six months for the treaty to be written and signed. In the treaty, it was stated that Germany must admit war guilt, pay reparations, and reduce the military. This angered Germany and fueled a fire beneath them. -
Mussolini becomes fascist leader of Italy
After the March on Rome, a protest where Italians threatened to seize power, Mussolini was declared prime minister by King Victor Emmanuel III. This meant Mussolini's rule had begun in Italy, as well as the fascist parties. Not only does this change the politics of Italy, it will also later influence Hitler into his ideas. -
Mein Kampf is published
Mein Kampf, translated to 'My Struggle,' is a book written by Adolf Hitler while he was serving a prison sentence. It served as his political manifesto, and has been referenced as "the bible of Nazisim." In this book, Hitler advocated for the death of Jews in concealed ways and his desire to capture land in Eastern Europe. This book allowed his ideas to be spread to the wider public, and is where most of his cruelty came from. -
Hitler becomes Chancellor of Germany
Hitler had run in the presidential election against Hindenburg, who appointed Hitler Chancellor of Germany 9 months after the election. This was Hitlers first real position in power, and he would only gain more from this point onward. This would eventually lead to Hitlers rule over Germany. -
"Night of the Long Knives" Hitler consolidates power
Hindenburg died in 1934, leaving Hitler as the sole leader of Germany. After coming into power, Hitler ordered a purge of Nazis in his party who he deemed future political enemies. Hitler only became more of a dictator thanks to this event, which was swept beneath the rug. -
Italy invades Ethiopia
Italy invaded Ethiopia which ultimately turned to victory, and the Emperor was sent into exile. This invasion proved that the League of Nations was ineffective on its own. Italy's power strengthened with the conquering of this land. -
Japan invades China
Japan invaded China in search of raw materials and China was becoming a united nation. Japan saw many victories with the capture of several cities. The lack of consequences seen during this invasion only encouraged Italy and Germany. -
Japanese Rape of Nanjing
Japan had been committing war crime after war crime on its way to Nanjing through China. Japan massacred people in Nanjing, killing and raping many people and women. The death toll is at least 200k, and led to victory for Japan in the city. -
Germany and Italy sign the Pact of Steel
This pact is what birthed the Axis powers which will eventually be joined by Japan and many others. Germany and Italy had already been anticipating war with Western powers. They would become the opposing force of the Allies during WWII. -
Germany invades Poland, beginning World War II
Germany marched into Poland under the guise of coming to bring justice for Germans that had been persecuted in Poland. They claimed that Poland, along with its Allies, was planning on coming after Germany. This event is what ultimately kicks off WWII, and Germany begins its unmerciful reign. -
Germany, Italy, and Japan sign the Tripartite Pact
This is what began the real Axis powers with the alliance of Germany, Italy, and Japan. The pact states that the countries would provide assistance for each other if they are attacked by any country still neutral in the war. This pact was mainly aimed at America, who had yet to become involved in the war. With this alliance, the Axis powers became a real threat.