World War II and Communist Expansion

A series of flashcards covering key concepts and terms related to the events and consequences of World War II, including its origin, major battles, and the rise of communist movements in Asia.

World War II (WWII)

A global conflict that lasted from 1937 to 1945, involving many nations and characterized by significant military engagements, including the fights between the Axis and Allied powers.

Manchukuo

A puppet state established by Japan in Manchuria after they seized control from China; it was condemned internationally.

Pearl Harbor

A naval base in Hawaii that was attacked by Japan on December 7, 1941, prompting the U.S. to enter WWII.

Blitzkrieg

A fast and powerful military strategy employed by Germany in WWII, involving rapid movements of troops and equipment.

The Holocaust

The genocide of six million Jews and millions of others deemed 'undesirable' during WWII, carried out by Nazi Germany.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP)

The political party founded in 1921 that led the communist revolution in China and ultimately established the People's Republic in 1949.

Guomindang

The Nationalist Party in China that governed before being overthrown by the communists in 1949, led by Chiang Kai-shek.

Comfort women

Women who were forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese army during WWII, particularly from occupied territories.

Final Solution

Nazi Germany's plan for the systematic genocide of the Jewish people, which was implemented during WWII.

Atomic bombs

Explosive weapons that utilize nuclear reactions; the United States dropped them on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, leading to Japan's surrender.

United Nations (UN)

An international organization founded after WWII to promote peace, security, and cooperation among countries.

Long March

A strategic retreat by the Chinese Communist Party in 1934-1935, which became a symbol of endurance and commitment to communism.

The Rape of Nanjing

A period of mass murder and rape by Japanese troops against Chinese citizens in the city of Nanjing during the Second Sino-Japanese War.

Total war

A conflict where nations mobilize all their resources and people for the war effort, affecting civilian life and the economy extensively.

Nazi Germany

The regime established by Adolf Hitler in Germany from 1933 to 1945, known for its fascist policies and the instigation of WWII.