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Austria annexed by Germany
On March 12, 1938, German troops march into Austria to annex the German-speaking nation for the Third Reich. -
Hitler takes control of all of Czechoslovakia
After signing the Munich Agreement on Sept. 30, 1938, Hitler swore to abide by a peace treaty with three major Western powers. Nevertheless, on March 15, 1939, Germany's Führer violated the terms of the agreement, choosing to invade Czechoslovakia. Compelled by a desire to assert ideals of Nazism, Hitler sought to gain this prized territory. -
France, England and Italy allow Germany to occupy the German-speaking area of Czechoslovakia
France, England and Italy allow Germany to occupy the German-speaking area of Czechoslovakia -
Hitler invades Poland
German troops parade through Warsaw after the surrender of Poland. -
Britain and France declare war on Germany
In response to Hitler's invasion of Poland, Britain and France, both allies of the overrun nation declare war on Germany. -
Australia enters World War II because it is part of the British Empire
Australia was allied with Britain, and sent troops to Europe/North Africa to help British forces there. -
Italy declares war on France and England
Britain and France declare war on Germany. Britain and France are at war with Germany following the invasion of Poland two days ago -
Japan attacks Pearl Harbour
3,500 Americans were killed or wounded in the attack -
The United States and Australia declare war on Japan
One hour after Japanese bombers struck at Hawaii on the morning of December 7, 1941, Prime Minister John Curtin of Australia declared that "from one hour ago, Australia has been at war with the Japanese Empire."
