Causes

WWII began in September 1939, when France and Britain declared war on Germany, that caused Germany to invade Poland. 

Hitler's Actions:

He became Chancellor of Germany in January 1933, immediately he began building up Germany's weapons and army. Britain and France knew about Hitler's actions, they also knew about the rise of communism and they thought that the fact of Germany being stronger would prevent the spread through the West.

In 1936 Germany's army wasn't strong, but he also made 2 alliances. The first one was called Rome-Berlin Axis Pact. The second was called Anti-Comitern Pact.

He began taking back the land that had been taken away from Germany, in 1938 German troops came into Austria, the Austrian leader was forced to vote asking the people if they wanted to be part of Germany. 

99% wanted Anschluss union with Germany, Hitler promised he didn't wanted to risk war. He did not keep hi word six months later.

Hitler was not a man of his word in March 1939 he invaded Czechoslovakia. They call for help but neither France nor Britain was prepared. France and Britain promised they would take action agains Hitler.

Treaty of Versailles

Woodrow Wilson wanted a treaty based on his 14 point plan, he believed this would bring peace to Europe.

Georges Clemenceau wanted to be sure that Germany would never start another war again, Lloyd George tried to mix between Wilson and Clemenceau plans. Germany wasn't happy with the Treaty of Versailles, but they had no choice.

1. War Guilt- Germany should accept the blame for starting World War One.

2. Reparations- Germany had to pay for the damage caused by the war.

3. Disarmament- Germany was only allowed to have a small army.

4. Territorial Clauses- Land was taken away from Germany.

The German people did not agreed with the treaty, Germany could't afford paying the amount of money. Because of this people voted to power a man who promised to end with the treaty and help Germany to get better.

The League of Nations

The league of nations was an organization created in 1919 to help keep world peace. 

It was a good idea, but it ended with some problems. The world had problems in the 1920's economy fell, lose income, prices fell, and unemployment rise. 

The League had no power.

The Leagues weapon was to ask countries to stop trading with aggressive countries, but it didn't work because countries could still trade with non-ember countries. 

Not all countries joined the League

There was a change in the U.S. before signing the treaty and the new government refused to join. As a punishment for starting world war 1, Germany was not allowed to join as well as Russia. 

The League had no army

Soldiers had to be supplied from members of the countries, but countries were trying not to get involved and risking in provoking an aggressive country into taking direct action.

Unable to act quickly

They only met 4 times a year and decisions had to be agreed by all nations. When the countries called for a meeting the League had to set up an emergency meeting. This meant that they couldn't act quickly to have an agreement.