Aggression in Europe and Asia

Japan Invades Manchuria

Sep 25, 1931

The attack by Japan on Manchuria was the first direct challenge to the Leauge of Nations. Once Japan seized Manchuria members of the League of Nations protested, which Japan ignored and withdrew from the League of Nations.

Italy attacks Ethiopia

Oct 25, 1935

The Ethiopians were no match for the Italian airplanes, tanks, guns, and poison gas. This attack was to avenge the defeat duing the 1890's.

Germany occupies Rhineland

Mar 25, 1936

The Rhineland area was an important industrial area that Germany wanted. Once the German's reoccupied Rhineland it marked a turning point in the march toward war.

Japan invades China

Jul 25, 1937

The Chinese forces had a million soldiers, but were still not ready to fight the Japanese that were better trained and equipped. Tens of thousands of captured soldiers and civilians were killed by the Japanese, this is called "the rape" of Nanjing.

Germany annexes Austria

Mar 25, 1938

This was the start of Hitler's plan to add several countries into the German Empire or the Third Reich. Once Germany annexed Austria, France and Britain ignored their pledge to protect the Austrian independence.

Germany takes Sudetenland

Sep 25, 1938

Hitler demanded Germany to be given Sudetenland, but they refused. Since the Czechs refused to give Germany Sudetenland they asked for help from France.

Germany seizes Czechoslovakia

Mar 25, 1939

Hitlers demand was granted by Britain and France to take the Sudetenland. Hitler then pledged to respect the Czechoslovakia's new borders.

Italy conquers Albania

Apr 25, 1939

Italy's troops were not organzied but was still able to conquer Albania. Albania was dependent on Italy's economy, so it did not have much to offer the invaders.