Causes of WWII Flashcards
Hitler’s three foreign policy objectives
Establish new racial order in Europe by German “master race”. Throw off restriction f ToV, incorporate territories with ethnic German populations, acquire vast new empire in Eastern Europe.
Manchuria in 1932
Invaded by Japanese in order to gain more raw materials to fuel its growth and growing industries from the Chinese province.
Hitler leaves League of Nations
German held referendum on withdrawal in 1933. Approved by majority of 95.1% of voters.
Saar Plebiscite
1935 a referendum held caused it to be returned to Germany from League of Nations. 90% in favour.
Abyssinia in 1935
Invaded by Italian army under Mussolini. Wanted to recreate the Roman Empire.
Conscription, rearmament, and remilitarization
Hitler expanded army and reintroduced conscription and began developing an air-force violating the ToV.
Appeasement
Britain’s policy in the 1930s of allowing Hitler to expand German territory practically unchecked.
Anschluss with Austria
Reuniting of Austria and Germany in 1938. This violated the conditions of the Treaty of Versailles.
Munich Agreement
Reached by Germany, GB, France and Italy in 1938. Permitted German annexation of Sudetenland, Czechoslovakia.
Spanish Civil War
Fought 1936-39 between republicans and nationalists. Distraction to Hitler’s strategy, provided opportunity to train men, test equipment and tactics.
Invasion of Czechoslovakia
Despite Munich Agreement Hitler invaded and occupied the remainder of Czechoslovakia.
Nazi-Soviet Pact
Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact was for non-aggression signed 1939. No military action for 10 years but Hitler broke it anyway.
Invasion of Poland
Wanted port city of Danzig which had a German majority and was separated following WWII.
