The events leading up to WWⅡ

  • Treaty of Versailles

    Treaty of Versailles
    The Treaty of Versailles signified the end of WWⅠ. It was created for Germany's defeat, by the Allied powers. This treaty obliged Germany to diminish the size of their army, concede the territories they invaded, and to pay for the reparations. All in all, Germany was forced to take the blame.
  • Hitler takes control of Germany

    Hitler takes control of Germany
    On January 30 1933, Hitler became the leader of Germany. In the years prior to 1933, Hitler shared his anti-semitic ideas and indoctrinated the German citizens. Soon enough, the Nazi party became the largest political party in the German government.
  • Invasion of the Rhineland

    Invasion of the Rhineland
    In 1936, Nazi troops were stationed near the border of Rhineland. Hitler's orders went against the Treaty of Versailles and threatened Rhineland. Due to this threat, the French government asked Britain for help. But, the British government settled this with appeasement. By choosing the policy of appeasement, the British government hoped to avoid another war
  • Anschluss

    Anschluss
    Since Hitler believed that Austria belonged to Germany, he annexed Austria in March 1938. The Nazis were easily able to invade Austria and make the Austrian government surrender. Still, Britain and France chose appeasement instead of confrontation.
  • Invasion of Czechoslovakia

    Invasion of Czechoslovakia
    In September 1938, Hitler invaded Czechoslovakia. Unlike Rhineland and Austria, the Czech government prepared to fight against the Nazi army. However, the League of Nations wanted to keep the peace, and so they negotiated with Hitler.
  • Munich Pact

    Munich Pact
    In fear of Hitler invading other European countries, the leaders of France and Britain made an agreement with Hitler. This agreement is called the Munich Pact, and it allowed Hitler to take control of Czechoslovakia. In return, Hitler was not allowed to invade other countries. Due to this negotiation, Britain and France were ensured that the peace would remain.
  • Nazi-Soviet Pact

    Nazi-Soviet Pact
    The only country that Hitler feared was Russia. In comparison to all the other European countries, Russia had the strongest army. Since Hitler did not want to confront them, he signed an alliance with Stalin in August 1939. This was called the Nazi-Soviet Pact and it meant that Hitler and Stalin cannot invade each other's countries.
  • Invasion of Poland/Start of WW2

    Invasion of Poland/Start of WW2
    After Stalin and Hitler signed a military alliance, they privately discussed their plan to take over Poland, and divide the nation. Shortly after, the League of Nations realized that their negotiation was not successful when Hitler took over Poland in September 1 1939. This lead France and Britain to declare war on Germany because they haven't kept their promise. Hitler's invasion of Poland lead to the start of WWⅡ.