9.2 - Causes of World War II Flashcards
(14 cards)
What event occurred only 20 years after the end of World War I?
The outbreak of World War II
Many people blamed this on the terms negotiated at the end of World War I.
What treaty was Germany forced to sign after World War I?
The Treaty of Versailles
This treaty imposed harsh terms on Germany.
What were the main consequences of the Treaty of Versailles for Germany?
- Weak and unstable economy
- Mass unemployment
- Severe rates of inflation
These consequences led to resentment among the German people.
What political changes in Germany contributed to the rise of tensions leading to World War II?
The Weimar Republic was established
This democratic government replaced Kaiser Wilhelm II.
What major global economic event began in 1929?
The Great Depression
Triggered by the stock market crash in New York.
How did the Great Depression affect Germany?
- Mass unemployment
- Record price rises
- Fall in standard of living
Germany was one of the worst affected nations during this time.
What sentiment did many Germans have towards the Weimar Republic?
Unpopularity
Many blamed it for agreeing to the Treaty of Versailles.
Which countries were part of the victorious Allied powers at the Paris Peace Conference?
- Britain
- France
- USA
- Italy
These powers negotiated the terms of surrender for the defeated central powers.
What did Japan attempt to introduce at the Treaty of Versailles that was opposed by Britain and Australia?
A ‘racial equality’ clause
Japan’s failure to secure this clause contributed to tensions with the West.
What was a significant consequence of the Paris Peace Conference for Japan?
Rise of Japanese nationalism and militarism
This was partly due to Japan’s failure to be recognized as equal to other powers.
Fill in the blank: The Treaty of Versailles created a sense of _______ among the German people.
resentment
This sentiment was exploited by German politicians in the following decades.
What economic issue did the Weimar Republic face after World War I?
Serious economic problems such as:
* Reparations
* Hyperinflation
* Unemployment
* Political instablility
This included dealing with the repercussions of the Treaty of Versailles.
True or False: The Treaty of Versailles was welcomed by all the Allied powers.
False
The treaty alienated some allies, such as Italy.
What was one of the penalties imposed on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles?
Harsh economic penalties because of things like the payment of reparations.
These penalties contributed to Germany’s economic instability.
