Before we learn why the Second World War happened, we must travel back a few years. The outcome of World War I had divided Europe. Also, the Treaty of Versailles was meant to bring lasting peace. However, it turned into a naive dream. Instead, the treaty caused anger in Germany. Already, the world was healing from the damage of the previous War.
The anger, in addition to economic troubles, caused instability. The Great Depression made things worse. The countries started becoming more desperate. Here is why the Second World War happened
Why The Second World War Happened after The Versailles Treaty?
The Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919 to end World War I. However, the terms of the treaty for Germany were flawed. Ultimately, the events caused the Second World War.
In other words, the treaty blamed Germany for the war. The Allies forced the Germans to give up their land. Also, the country had to reduce its military and pay a significant amount of money to the winners.
Rise of Fascism in Europe
Also, World War I spread a dangerous idea called fascism in Europe. It focused on extreme national pride. However, the government had strict control with a focus on war. Secondly, fascism was against personal freedoms. In Italy, Benito Mussolini took advantage of tough times to create a similar government. The success allowed others to do the same.
Economic Turmoil and the Great Depression
Primarily, Japan depended a lot on trade with other countries. However, it also faced major economic issues. As a result, Japan faced political problems and an increase in militarism. Next, the Imperial Japanese Army took control. Subsequently, countries focused on their issues and stopped cooperating. You can read about the First World War for more context.
Why The Second World War Happened after the 1930s?
The 1930s saw many important political changes. In other words, it brought the world closer to war. The League of Nations was made to prevent conflicts. However, it did not work well. Consequently, it failed to stop Japan from taking over Manchuria or Italy from invading Ethiopia.
The League of Nations could not stop other countries wanting to expand. Lastly, it had little success in stopping arms shipments into Spain during the Spanish Civil War.
The League of Nations Failed
The League of Nations was started after World War I. It was created for countries to work together so they could solve problems. Unfortunately, it had design issues. Member countries often hesitated to support each other. Over time, the League grew weak.
Aggressive Expansion by Axis Powers
Germany, Italy, and Japan were part of the Axis Powers. Unfortunately, their actions become problematic in the 1930s. They felt confident due to the League of Nations not taking action.
Initially, Hitler wanted more living space for his people. Therefore, he broke the Treaty of Versailles. Next, he sent troops to the Rhineland in western Germany. He will take over Austria.
Policies and their Consequences
Subsequently, Britain and France took a path of appeasement. Both countries were still hurting from World War I. Also, they had problems at home. Therefore, accepting some of Hitler’s land demands allowed them to avoid another big conflict.
Why The Second World War Happened: The Timeline
The Invasion of Poland
The invasion of Poland is the reason why the Second World War happened. On September 1st, 1939, German forces attacked Poland. They used harmful tactics known as “blitzkrieg.”
On the other end, Polish forces tried hard to defend their land. However, they could not withstand the strong German attack. The invasion was the first real test for the Allies to support Poland’s safety. Unfortunately, none could stop Hitler.
Early Axis Victories and Allied Retreats
In Eastern Europe, the Soviet Union had a no-aggression deal with Germany. They occupied the Baltic states and took land from Finland. However, the events kept the Allies on their toes. It led to many tough retreats. In short, there was disbelief about how powerful the German forces were.
Declarations of War by Britain and France
The invasion of Poland is why the Second World War happened. On September 3rd, 1939, Great Britain declared war on Germany. Initially, they had sent an ultimatum that Germany did not answer. Soon after, France declared war also. They had promised to protect Poland. However, the Allied powers were not ready for such a big conflict.
Turning Points of Why The Second World War Happened?
Battle of Britain and the Blitz
German Air Force filled the skies over Britain with loud noise in the summer of 1940. Initially, Germany wanted to weaken the island nation for a possible invasion. Therefore, Germany began a constant air attack called the Battle of Britain.
The Battle of Britain was an important event in why the Second World War happened. It showed that no nation could defeat the German army. However, the British people stood strong. Winston Churchill’s strong speeches inspired hope. The nation as well as Europe persevered.
Why The Second World War Happened: Operation Barbarossa
On June 22nd, 1941, Hitler wanted more living space. He thought the Soviet Union was weak. So, he began Operation Barbarossa. In other words, it was called the German invasion of the Soviet Union.
It was a huge invasion that sparked a war between the Soviet Union and Germany. 1.5 million German soldiers and the Soviet Union were fighting at the Eastern Front
Pearl Harbor: Bringing the US into the War
The peace of a Sunday morning changed forever on December 7th, 1941. Japanese planes carried out a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. It is a U.S. naval base in Hawaii. The move was part of a strategy toward Western targets in the Pacific War.
The Japanese attack was a major factor in why the Second World War happened. Next, the United States decided to declare war on Japan on December 8th, 1941,
Subsequently, the sight of burning ships and the great loss of American lives filled the nation with anger and sadness. President Franklin D. Roosevelt said in his speech to Congress that December 7th is “a date which will live in infamy.”
Why The Second World War Happened: D-Day and the Normandy Invasion
On June 6th, 1944the Western Allies started Operation Overlord. Historians call it the biggest beach invasion ever. D-Day was a plan aimed at the beaches in Normandy, France.
As they ran through heavy gunfire and faced tough opposition, Allied soldiers landed on the beaches. As a result, they secured a base on the Europe mainland.
The invasion had troops from many countries, including the United Kingdom. It was a huge job in planning and action.
The Role of Technology in Why The Second World War Happened
Advancements in Military Technology
Foremost, tanks became faster and stronger. They played an important part in the German blitzkrieg. Also, the skies turned into battle zones as planes got better. In other words, new ways to fight had changed air power.
Secondly, radar was a key technology. The British first used it to give early warning. As a result, it helped them find and stop enemy planes. In short, radars were very important in the Battle of Britain. However, The Axis powers worked hard, too. Moreover, they created advanced submarines and jet airplanes later in the war.
Codebreaking Efforts
The German Enigma machine was a complex device that sent coded messages. Therefore, it was a huge risk for Allied intelligence. However, the clever work of mathematicians and codebreakers at Bletchley Park did their job well. Britain’s secret codebreakers solved the Enigma code. Over time, they could predict German actions and plans.
The Manhattan Project and Atomic Bombs
Of course, the Allies worried Germany might build this powerful weapon first. In 1945, the Manhattan Project introduced the first atomic bombs. Unfortunately, the USA decided to bomb the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Ultimately, the Japanese government surrendered, and the World War II ended. However, the Manhattan Project question the use of nuclear weapons.
The Home Front During Wartime
Economic Adjustments and Rationing
Many people argued why the Second World War happened. Firstly, rationing meant people got a fair share of necessary items. In other words, the listed included food, clothes, and fuel.
Next, governments set prices and asked citizens to buy war bonds to help pay for the war. The new measures were tough. However, they showed the sacrifices people needed to make for their country.
In gist, the wartime saw economic problems. At the same time, it led to new ideas and better ways of working.
Propaganda and Public Morale
Governments used posters, radio shows, movies, and even music to turn people against the enemy. In contrast, they praise their soldiers. Ultimately, it created a feeling of unity. In short, the governments realized keeping the public’s spirits high was key. The nation will overcome hard times and losses with support.
The Role of Women and Minorities
“Rosie the Riveter” became a symbol of strong women during the time. She represented the women who worked in factories, shipyards, and other jobs. They made weapons, built planes, and helped keep everything running. Furthermore, minorities also played a crucial part. Also, they served in the armed forces and wanted racial equality.
Global Impact of Why the Second World War Happened
The Holocaust and War Crimes
The Holocaust is a strong reminder of why the Second World War happened. The Nazi regime carried out the terrible act. They targeted Jewish people, Roma, and LGBTQ+ individuals. In addition, the Nazis also searched for people with disabilities. They called the groups “undesirable.” Next, the persecution turned into mass murder. Nazis created camps for killing. About 6 million Jewish people lost their lives during the time.
Changes in World Geopolitics
Foremost, the United States and the Soviet Union became superpowers. Their different beliefs and goals led to the Cold War over time. Also, the rivalry shaped the second half of the 20th century. Subsequently, countries redrew their borders. As a result, new tensions grew.
Formation of the United Nations
The UN includes many different nations that aim to stop future wars. They created the organization to promote human rights. Furthermore, the UN supported international law and solved global issues. Its design Security Council was meant to fix the mistakes of the League of Nations.
Why The Second World War Happened: the Aftermath
The Fall of Berlin and Surrender of Axis Powers
The fall of Berlin in April 1945 marked a big turning point in the war in Europe. The powerful Nazi regime was falling apart due to strong attacks from the Allies in the west and the Soviet Red Army in the east.
The battle of Stalingrad in February 1943 turned Berlin into ruins. It is called one of the bloodiest in history. The battle marked the beginning of the end for the Third Reich.
As Soviet troops fought in the city, Hitler took his own life in his bunker. Thus, it ended his cruel rule. On May 8th, Germany formally surrendered to the Allied powers.
The Nuremberg Trials and Justice for War Crimes
The discussion about why the Second World War happened is not over! The Nuremberg Trials took place in Germany from 1945 to 1949. Nazi officials, military leaders, and doctors were put to trial. They faced charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The Nuremberg Trials had their flaws. However, they set important legal standards.
Reconstruction and the Marshall Plan
The United States came out of the war as a strong leader in the world. It knew helping Europe was important. The Marshall Plan gave billions of dollars to help European countries that the war had damaged.
Why The Second World War Happened: The Legacy
The Cold War and its Origins
The world celebrated the end of fascism. However, a new global rivalry started to grow. The Cold War was a standoff between the United States and its allies. Moreover, the Soviet Union also questioned its ties with the smaller countries. Unfortunately, the Cold War lasted for many years. Over time, the world will deal with politics and many conflicts. There was a constant fear of nuclear war.
Decolonization and Independence Movements
During this time, nations that wanted their own rule became more active. In other words, the desire for freedom grew. India’s independence from Britain in 1947 was a key moment. Next, it encouraged other nations.
After the war, many countries in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean became independent. As a result, decolonization changed politics. Countries interacted with each other for support and help.
Why the Second World War Happened: Is Peace Next?
The terrible effects of World War II showed how much we need a cooperative world. The lessons from the conflict are part of our shared memory. They teach the world the value of diplomacy. Moreover, we must value strong international organizations.
Unfortunately, finding peace is not simple. It takes ongoing talks and teamwork. However, a promise to respect human rights is a start. Why the Second World War happened was a clear warning to learn from the past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why the Second World War happened?
The main reasons for World War II were the strict rules of the Treaty of Versailles on Germany. Finally, the Axis powers contributed to the war.
How Did the Treaty of Versailles Contribute to World War II?
The Treaty of Versailles caused anger in Germany. As a result, it created economic trouble and made politics unstable. The conditions helped Hitler and the Nazi Party gain power.
What was the Role of Technology in World War II?
The Second World War introduced radars, new aircraft designs, and codebreaking. It created atomic bombs.
How Did World War II Change the World?
First, the United States and the Soviet Union were superpowers. In the end, the War created the United Nations. However, it also started the Cold War.
Could World War II Have Been Prevented?
Stronger steps against Axis attacks and a better League of Nations may have prevented the war.
Books on Why The Second World War Happened
Operation Mincemeat: A Captivating Guide
