Beginning of World War II

Second Sino-Japanese War

A conflict that began in 1937 when Japan invaded China, often considered by many historians as the start of World War II in Asia.

Anschluss

The annexation and unification of Austria with Nazi Germany in 1938.

Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact

A non-aggression agreement signed between Germany and the Soviet Union in August 1939, which also included secret protocols dividing Eastern Europe into spheres of influence.

Invasion of Poland

The event on September 1, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland, marking the official beginning of World War II.

Axis Powers

The alliance formed by Germany, Italy, and Japan during World War II, characterized by militarism and nationalism.

Puppet State

A government that appears to be in control but is actually manipulated and controlled by another power, as seen in Manchukuo under Japanese rule.

Sudetenland

A region in Czechoslovakia that was annexed by Germany in 1938, leading to appeasement by the Allied Powers.

Civil War in China

A conflict between the Nationalists and the Communists in China during the 1930s, exploited by Japan to expand its control in the region.