CONFLICT IN EUROPE - MODERN Flashcards
What were the causes of the war?
The causes of the war included the growth of European tensions, the collapse of collective security, and the policy of appeasement by Britain and France.
What events highlighted the collapse of collective security?
The invasion of Abyssinia, the Japanese invasion of Manchuria, and the Spanish Civil War.
What was Mussolini’s aim in invading Abyssinia in 1935?
Mussolini aimed to create an Italian Empire, revive the glory of the Roman Empire, and gain resources and markets from Abyssinia.
How did Britain and France respond to Mussolini’s invasion of Abyssinia?
They prioritized their own national interests and chose not to intervene, demonstrating the failure of collective security.
What was the significance of the Hoare-Laval Plan?
It was a secret plan to offer Mussolini most of Abyssinia in exchange for ending the war, highlighting the appeasement policy.
What was the Spanish Civil War?and when was it
A conflict between left-wing democratic forces and nationalist forces under General Franco, with support from Hitler and Mussolini. 27 july 1936
What was the outcome of the Spanish Civil War?
It was seen as a rehearsal for WWII, where Germany tested its weapons and tactics.
What happened during the invasion of Manchuria in 1931?
China invaded Manchuria, but the League of Nations did not intervene, showing its lack of authority.
What was Chamberlain’s policy of appeasement?
A strategy aimed at avoiding war by conceding to some of Hitler’s demands, which ultimately failed to prevent the war.
What were some reasons for Chamberlain’s policy of appeasement?
Britain was not ready for war, wanted to rearm, and saw Hitler’s demands as reasonable.
What was the Munich Agreement?
signed september 30th 1938 An agreement allowing Germany to annex the Sudetenland, made by Britain, France, Germany, and Italy.
What was the significance of the Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact?
It allowed Hitler to invade Poland without fear of a two-front war, marking a major failure in preventing war.
What were the aims of German foreign policy to September 1939?
To create a racially pure empire, revise the Treaty of Versailles, achieve Anschluss, and expand Lebensraum.
What was the fall of Poland?
Germany staged an attack on its own radio stations as a pretext to invade Poland on September 1, 1939, leading to Poland’s surrender.
What tactics did Germany use to win the Battle of France?
Germany used blitzkrieg tactics, avoiding the Maginot Line and quickly defeating France.
What was the significance of the Battle of Britain?
It was a turning point that prevented Germany from invading Britain.
Why did Britain win the Battle of Britain?
The Luftwaffe’s shift in strategy and the RAF’s effective defense contributed to Britain’s victory.
What was the significance of the Battle of Britain?
It was a turning point in the war that saved Britain from being invaded by Germany.
Why did the British win the Battle of Britain?
The Luftwaffe’s shift towards London reduced pressure on the RAF, allowing them to shoot down more German planes.
What was the impact of Hitler’s strategy change during the Battle of Britain?
The change to central London was unsuccessful as RAF fighters in the north provided better air support.
Why did Germany reduce air raids after September 1940?
Hitler became focused on a potential war with Russia.
What advantages did the British have during the Battle of Britain?
They fought over their own land, damaged aircraft could rejoin, and they captured German prisoners of war.
What limitations did the German Messerschmitt Bf-109 have?
It was short on range and had limited operational time.
How did the RAF’s radar system contribute to their success?
The radar provided early warnings, allowing the RAF to be prepared and in the right place.
