The main causes that led to World War II were:
1. Treaty of Versailles: The harsh conditions imposed on Germany after World War I, including territorial losses and hefty reparations, created resentment and economic instability within the country, fueling nationalist sentiments.
2. Expansionist Policies: Countries like Germany, Italy, and Japan sought to expand their territories and influence through aggressive military actions, such as Germany's annexation of Austria and the Sudetenland, Italy's invasion of Ethiopia, and Japan's invasion of Manchuria.
3. Appeasement: The policy of appeasement by Western powers, particularly Britain and France, in the face of Hitler's aggressive actions only emboldened him to further disregard international agreements and pursue his expansionist goals. Notable events include the Munich Agreement, where Britain and France allowed Germany to annex the Sudetenland in Czechoslovakia.
4. Failure of the League of Nations: The League of Nations was ineffective in preventing and resolving conflicts, such as the invasion of Manchuria by Japan in 1931 and the Italian invasion of Ethiopia in 1935, which demonstrated the inability of the international community to maintain peace and deter aggression.
5. Rise of Totalitarianism: The rise of totalitarian regimes in Germany, Italy, and Japan, led by leaders like Hitler, Mussolini, and Tojo respectively, promoted militarism, nationalism, and expansionism, setting the stage for global conflict. Key events include Hitler's consolidation of power in Germany through the Enabling Act and Mussolini's March on Rome.
Resource Link: https://www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii/world-war-ii-history
Identify the main causes that led to World War II. Resource Link for WWII Causes Explain each cause with 1-2 sentences.(Provide key events)
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