The CAUSES of WORLD WAR II, Explained [AP World History Review—Unit 7 Topic 6]

The Treaty of Versailles and its Aftermath00:00:17

The Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I, caused significant bitterness, particularly in Italy and Germany. Italy was denied promised land, while Germany faced reparations, demilitarization, and the humiliating war guilt clause, leading to economic disaster and resentment.

Continued Imperialist Aspirations and Appeasement00:01:56

Japan expanded into China and the Pacific, and Italy invaded Ethiopia, forming a new empire. Germany, under Hitler, reclaimed the Rhineland and expanded into Czechoslovakia and Austria for 'lebensraum' (living space). Britain and France's policy of appeasement enabled Hitler's aggression.

Economic Crisis and the Rise of Totalitarian Regimes00:02:58

The Great Depression led to widespread unemployment and hunger, making populations susceptible to authoritarian leaders. Joseph Stalin rose in the Soviet Union, aiming for global communism. In Italy, Benito Mussolini established a fascist state, promising stability and nationalistic pride amidst economic hardship.

Hitler and Nazism in Germany00:04:45

Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party capitalized on German humiliation and suffering. Hitler's plan included canceling reparations, remilitarizing Germany, acquiring 'lebensraum', and eliminating 'impure' races, especially Jews, leading directly to World War II.