9.4 - The Course of the War in Europe Flashcards
(13 cards)
What was one of Hitler’s aims in the 1930s?
To regain the territories taken from Germany under the Treaty of Versailles in 1919
What actions did Hitler take immediately after coming to power in 1933?
Increased the size of the military, reintroduced conscription, re-established the Luftwaffe, and increased production of weapons and ammunition
What was the status of the Rhineland under the Treaty of Versailles?
It was a demilitarized zone where Germany could not base any troops
In what year did Hitler order German troops to enter the Rhineland?
1936
What was the British and French response to Hitler’s actions in the 1930s?
They largely tolerated them, following a policy of appeasement
Why did Britain and France adopt a policy of appeasement?
They believed it would avoid another war, could not afford war due to the Great Depression, and some thought the Treaty of Versailles was too harsh
What significant action did Hitler take in 1938?
He annexed Austria
What was the Sudetenland and why did Hitler claim it?
A region in Czechoslovakia with around three million ethnic Germans, used to justify his claims
What was agreed upon at the Munich meeting in September 1938?
Return of Sudetenland to Germany in exchange for Hitler’s assurance not to make further territorial claims
What happened in March 1939 regarding Czechoslovakia?
Germany invaded the rest of Czechoslovakia
What alliance did Britain form in response to Hitler’s demands on Poland?
An alliance with Poland to guarantee its security and independence
When did Germany invade Poland, marking the end of appeasement?
1 September 1939
What was the outcome of Germany’s invasion of Poland?
Britain and France declared war on Germany in September 1939
