The Origins of World War II

pages 266-270

It Matters BecauseIn the years following World War I, aggressive and expansionist governments took power in Europe and Asia. Meanwhile, most Americans did not want to get involved in another foreign war.

Do Now Responses

1. How did the terms of the Treaty of Versailles lead to hardship and discontent in Germany?

The treaty mandated that Germany pay $33 billion in reparations which crippled their economy and led to a depression.

Do Now Responses

2. How did dictators use nationalism in their rise to power?

Mussolini, Hitler, and Tojo promised to restore their nations – all suffering economic hardship and political military weakness – to prosperity and stability. They promised the people they would make them a great nation.

Do Now Responses

3. How was the occupation of the Rhineland a test of the Treaty of Versailles?

The region had been demilitarized under the treaty, so by occupying the region with the German military, Hitler was testing the strength of the treaty and the resolve of the former Allies to enforce its terms.

The Origins of World War II TERMS

1. Fascism – a political system headed by a dictator that calls for extreme nationalism and often racism and no tolerance of opposition.

2. Appeasement – giving in to unjust demands in order to avoid all-out conflict.

3. Collective – a farm, especially in Communist countries, formed from many small holdings collected into a single unit for joint operation under governmental supervision.

4. Exploit – to take unfair advantage of.5. Dominate – to be in a state or position of command or

control over all others.6. Command – to be in control of, to have full power.

The Origins of World War II Critical Thinking 267

Why would political and economic instability lead to a rise of dictatorships?

Political and economic instability led people to want some kind of change in leadership, especially a strong leadership, and dictators offered this.

The Origins of World War II Critical Thinking 269

Why did opinions of Chamberlain change so quicklyafter Hitler invaded Poland?

Because appeasing Hitler, by signing the MunichAgreement, had failed to preserve peace.

The Origins of World War II Critical Thinking 270

Why do you think that the policy of appeasementfailed?

Because Hitler was greedy and he took advantage ofhis power, he wanted control of as much land aspossible.

The Origins of World War II Progress Check 268

How did postwar conditionscontribute to the rise ofdictatorships in Europe?

Postwar inequalities caused by theTreaty of Versailles fuelednationalism. Economic depressionand social unrest createddesperation for new, strongerleadership. Dictators were able tocapitalize on these feelings to seizecontrol of governments.

The Origins of World War II

Progress Check 270

How was Britain ableto prevent GermanyFrom invading?

Britain’s use of radarhelped it turn backGermany and saveBritain from invasion.