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Great Depression
Period of severe economic downturn. Time of widespread unemployment, poverty, and financial crisis. Collapse of the banking system, a decrease in consumer spending and international trade all contributed to economic collapse. Had profound effects on people's lives, causing many to lose their jobs, homes, and savings. took years for economy to recover from devastating effects. -
Hitler appointed Chancellor of Germany
Political instability and economic hardships faced by Germany at the time allowed Hitler to rise to power promising to restore the country's former glory. -
Abyssinia invaded by Italy
Italy wanted to expand its colonial empire and Abyssinia was one of the few remaining African countries that had not been colonized. Abyssinia rich in natural resourced, such as coffee and minerals, which Italy wanted to exploit for its own economic benefit. Mussolini saw invasion as an opportunity to distract the Italian population from domestic issues and rally support for his fascist regime. -
Anti-Comintern Pact
Formed by Germany and Japan aimed to strengthen their alliance against spread of communism and coordinate efforts in opposing the Soviet Union. Pact later joined by Italy, Hungary and Spain forming united front against communism. Played significant role in shaping the geopolitical landscape during interwar period and contributed to tensions that eventually led to World War 2. -
Remilitarization of the Rhineland
German action violated terms of the Treaty of Versailles, which had prohibited Germany from stationing military forces in this area. Decision to remilitarize Rhineland was driven by Hitler's desire to expand Germany's military power and challenged the intentional order established after Word War 1. Marked significant step towards escalation of tension eventually leasing to outbreak of World War 2. -
Munich Conference
Meeting between leaders of Germany, Britain, France, and Italy to discuss the escalating tensions in Europe, particularly the Germany annexation of Czechoslovakia. Conference resulted in signing of Munich Agreement which allowed Germany to annex certain parts of Czechoslovakia in exchange for a promise of peace. Agreement ultimately failed to prevent outbreak of World War 2. -
Britain and France declare war on Germany
Germany invading Poland violated agreement made by Britain and France to protect Poland's sovereignty, leading to the declaration of war in order to defend Poland and uphold international treaties. -
Germany invades Poland
Germany wanted to expand their territory and gain more resources. Also believe din superiority and wanted to establish dominance over other countries. Germany wanted to weaken Poland as a potential thereat and eliminate any opposition to their rule in Eastern Europe. -
Nazi-Soviet Pact
Agreement between Germany and Soviet Union before World War 2. Outlined a non-aggression pact between the countries. Pact also included secret agreement to divide Eastern Europe into spheres of influence between the two powers. Allowed both countries to avoid conflict with each other and focus on their own expansionist goals. -
Anglo-French guarantee of Poland
Guarantee made after Germany's annexation of Czechoslovakia to show support for Poland and prevent further expansion by Nazi Germany. deter German aggression and protect Poland's sovereignty.