The Role Of The USSR 1938-1939: The Nazi Soviet Pact Flashcards
Why did this bring war closer?
Hitler and Stalin had agreed to invade Poland
Hitler was certain that Britain and France, without the support of Russia, would fail to carry out their promise to defend Poland.
Why did they sign the pact?
Stalin lost patience with the British because they were hesitating to sign an agreement with him. Also Stalin though Britain and France were trying to push Germany towards Russia
Why was this pact an advantage for Stalin?
Gained half of Poland
He used this time to rearm the USSR against a german attack
What date was the pact signed?
23rd August 1939
What was agreed in the pact?
Not to attack each other
In a series of secret clauses- to attack Poland and split it
Why did this pact stun the world?
Hitlers policy in finding lebensraum involved conquering territory East of Germany. Including the USSR. Also hitler hated communism which was certain he would attack Russia
When did they invade Poland?
1st September 1939
What did chamberlain do when they invaded Poland?
Tried to persuade them to withdraw and hold a peace conference
Chamberlain failed at getting them to withdraw… What happened?
On the 3rd September he had no choice but to declare war on Germany
